Three-dimensional printing and three-dimensional printers

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure provides three-dimensional (3D) printing processes, apparatuses, software, and systems for the production of at least one desired 3D object. The 3D printer system (e.g., comprising a processing chamber, build module, or an unpacking station) described herein may retain a desired (e.g., inert) atmosphere around the material bed and/or 3D object at multiple 3D printing stages. The 3D printer described herein comprises one or more build modules that may have a controller separate from the controller of the processing chamber. The 3D printer described herein comprises a platform that may be automatically constructed. The invention(s) described herein may allow the 3D printing process to occur for a long time without operator intervention and/or down time.

CROSS-REFERENCE

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/356,465, filed on Jun. 29, 2016, titled “THREE-DIMENSIONALPRINTING AND UNPACKING,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/421,836, filed on Nov. 14, 2016, titled “THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTINGAND THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTERS,” U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/472,320, filed on Mar. 16, 2017, titled “THREE-DIMENSIONALPRINTING AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTERS,” and U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/506,149, filed on May 15, 2017, titled“THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTERS,” each ofwhich is entirely incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Three-dimensional (3D) printing (e.g., additive manufacturing) is aprocess for making a 3D object of any shape from a design. The designmay be in the form of a data source such as an electronic data source,or may be in the form of a hard copy. The hard copy may be atwo-dimensional representation of a 3D object. The data source may be anelectronic 3D model. 3D printing may be accomplished through an additiveprocess in which successive layers of material are laid down one on topof another. This process may be controlled (e.g., computer controlled,manually controlled, or both). A 3D printer can be an industrial robot.

3D printing can generate custom parts. A variety of materials can beused in a 3D printing process including elemental metal, metal alloy,ceramic, elemental carbon, or polymeric material. In some 3D printingprocesses (e.g., additive manufacturing), a first layer of hardenedmaterial is formed (e.g., by welding powder), and thereafter successivelayers of hardened material are added one by one, wherein each new layerof hardened material is added on a pre-formed layer of hardenedmaterial, until the entire designed three-dimensional structure (3Dobject) is layer-wise materialized.

3D models may be created with a computer aided design package, via 3Dscanner, or manually. The manual modeling process of preparing geometricdata for 3D computer graphics may be similar to plastic arts, such assculpting or animating. 3D scanning is a process of analyzing andcollecting digital data on the shape and appearance of a real object(e.g., real-life object). Based on this data, 3D models of the scannedobject can be produced.

A number of 3D printing processes are currently available. They maydiffer in the manner layers are deposited to create the materialized 3Dstructure (e.g., hardened 3D structure). They may vary in the materialor materials that are used to materialize the designed 3D object. Somemethods melt, sinter, or soften material to produce the layers that formthe 3D object. Examples for 3D printing methods include selective lasermelting (SLM), selective laser sintering (SLS), direct metal lasersintering (DMLS) or fused deposition modeling (FDM). Other methods cureliquid materials using different technologies such as stereo lithography(SLA). In the method of laminated object manufacturing (LOM), thinlayers (made inter alia of paper, polymer, or metal) are cut to shapeand joined together.

At times, the starting material used for the 3D printing and/or theremainder of the starting material that did not form the 3D object maybe susceptible to ambient atmospheric conditions (e.g., oxygen orhumidity). At times, it may be desirable to prevent exposure of anoperator to the 3D printing starting material and/or remainder. Someembodiments of the present disclosure delineate ways of overcoming suchhardship.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure delineates methods, systems,apparatuses, and software that allow modeling of 3D objects with areduced amount of design constraints (e.g., no design constraints). Thepresent disclosure delineates methods, systems, apparatuses, andsoftware that allow materialization of these 3D object models.

SUMMARY

In an aspect is a method for generating a three-dimensional (3D) objectthat comprises: (a) engaging a build module with a processing chamber,wherein the build module comprises a platform, wherein the build moduleis controlled by a first controller and the processing chamber iscontrolled by a second controller, wherein the first controller isdifferent from the second controller; and (b) printing a 3D objectaccording to a 3D printing method by using the second controller, which3D object is disposed adjacent to the platform and in the build module.

The build module may be dis-engaged from the processing chamber by usingthe first controller. The first controller may not control the secondcontroller. The build module may be reversibly sealable by a firstshutter. The build module may comprise a first conditioned atmosphere.The processing chamber may be reversibly sealable by a second shutter.The processing chamber may comprise a second conditioned atmosphere. Thebuild module may be reversibly sealable by a first shutter and theprocessing chamber is reversibly sealable by a second shutter. A loadlock volume can be formed in operation (b) between the build module andthe processing chamber. The method may further comprise conditioning anatmosphere of the load lock. The method can further comprise removingthe first shutter and the second shutter before operation (b). At leastone of the conditioning, removing, printing, docking, and inserting maynot require human intervention. At times, at least two of theconditioning, removing, printing, docking, and inserting may occurwithout human intervention. The 3D printing method can comprise additivemanufacturing. The 3D printing method can comprise granular 3D printing.The granular 3D printing can comprise using a granular material selectedfrom the group consisting of elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramics, andan allotrope of elemental carbon. The printing can comprise transformingthe granular material to form a transformed material to form at least aportion of the 3D object. The transforming can comprise melting orsintering the granular material. The transforming comprises can comprisemelting the granular material.

In another aspect is a method for generating a 3D object that comprises:(a) engaging a build module with a load lock area that is connected to aprocessing chamber comprising a second atmosphere, wherein the buildmodule comprises a platform and a first atmosphere, wherein the loadlock area comprises a third atmosphere; and (b) printing a 3D objectaccording to a 3D printing method, which 3D object is disposed adjacentto the platform and in the build module.

The first atmosphere may be substantially an inert atmosphere. Thesecond atmosphere may be substantially an inert atmosphere. The thirdatmosphere may be substantially an inert atmosphere. At least two of thefirst atmosphere, second atmosphere, and third atmosphere, may besubstantially the same atmosphere. An equilibration channel mayequilibrate pressure and/or content within at least one of firstatmosphere, second atmosphere or third atmosphere. The equilibrationchannel may be connected between the build module and the processingchamber. The equilibration channel may be connected between the buildmodule and the load lock area. The equilibration channel may beconnected between the processing chamber and the load lock area. Theequilibration channel may comprise a valve. The valve may be openable.The valve may be closable.

In another aspect is a method for generating a 3D object that comprisesprinting a 3D object according to a 3D printing method in a 3D printer,which 3D printer is engaged in 3D printing for at least about eightypercent of the time. The 3D printer can be engaged in 3D printing for atleast about ninety percent of the time. The 3D printer can be engaged in3D printing for at least about ninety-five percent of the time. The 3Dprinter can be engaged in 3D printing for at least about ninety-eightpercent of the time. The 3D printer may print two or more 3D objectsbefore the 3D printer is interrupted. The 3D printer may require asingle operator in every twenty-four hours in a seven-day work week. The3D printing method may comprise granular 3D printing. The 3D printingmay comprise using granular material in the granular 3D printing. The 3Dprinter may have a granular material capacity for at least twosuccessive 3D printing cycles. In some instances, at least one of thetwo successive 3D printing cycles can comprise printing a plurality of3D objects in a single 3D printing cycle.

In another aspect, an apparatus for generating a 3D object thatcomprises: a processing chamber comprising a first controller; a buildmodule comprising a material bed, wherein the build module is controlledby a second controller, wherein the build module engages with theprocessing chamber, wherein the first controller is different from thesecond controller; and an energy source that generates an energy beamthat transform a portion of the material bed to generate the 3D objectby using the second controller.

The first controller may control the engagement of the build module withthe processing chamber. In some embodiments, the second controller maycontrol the dis-engagement of the build module from the processingchamber (e.g., after the 3D object has been built). In some embodiments,the first controller may control the dis-engagement of the build modulefrom the processing chamber (e.g., after the 3D object has been built).Printing a 3D object according to a 3D printing method may compriseusing the second controller. The 3D object may be disposed adjacent tothe platform and in the build module. The build module may comprise alifting mechanism configured to vertically translate the platform. Thelifting mechanism may comprise a drive mechanism or a guide mechanism.The drive mechanism may comprise a lead screw or a scissor jack. Theguide mechanism may comprise a rail or a linear bearing.

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing comprises: a firstcontroller that is programmed to perform the following operations:operation (i) direct engaging of a build module with a processingchamber, wherein the build module comprises a material bed, wherein thebuild module comprises a second controller and the processing chamber iscontrolled by the first controller, wherein the first controller isdifferent from the second controller; and operation (ii) direct printingof a 3D object according to a 3D printing, which 3D object is disposedin the build module.

In some examples, the second controller may be further programmed todisengage the build module from the processing chamber. In someembodiments, the first controller may be further programmed to disengagethe build module from the processing chamber. The first controller maynot control the second controller. The first controller may communicatewith the second controller. Communicate may comprise emitting a signalfrom the second controller. Communicate may comprise reading a signalemitted from the second controller, by the first controller.

In another aspect, a computer software product for 3D printing of atleast one 3D object, comprising a non-transitory computer-readablemedium in which program instructions are stored, which instructions,when read by a computer, cause the computer to perform operations thatcomprise: operation (a) directing engaging of a build module with aprocessing chamber, wherein the build module comprises a platform,wherein the build module is controlled by a first controller and theprocessing chamber is controlled by a second controller, wherein thefirst controller is different from the second controller; and operation(b) directing printing of a 3D object according to a 3D printing methodby using the second controller, which 3D object is disposed adjacent tothe platform and in the build module.

In another aspect, a system for forming a 3D object comprises: aprocessing chamber comprising a first controller that is operativelycoupled to the processing chamber; a build module comprising a platform,wherein the build module comprises a second controller, wherein thefirst controller is different from the second controller, wherein thesecond controller is operatively coupled to the build module; andwherein the first controller is programmed to perform the followingoperations: operation (i) engage the build module with the processingchamber, and operation (ii) print a 3D object, which 3D object isdisposed in the build module.

In some examples, the first controller may be programmed to disengagethe build module from the processing chamber comprising the 3D object.In some embodiments, the second controller may be programmed todisengage the build module from the processing chamber comprising the 3Dobject.

In another aspect, an apparatus for generating a 3D object, comprises: aprocessing chamber comprising a first atmosphere; a load-lock (e.g.,comprising a partition that defines an internal load lock volume)comprising a second atmosphere that is connected to the processingchamber; a build module comprising a third atmosphere, wherein the buildmodule comprises a material bed, wherein the build module is thatreversibly connected to the load-lock; and an energy source thatgenerates an energy beam configured to print a 3D object disposed in thebuild module.

At least one of the first atmosphere, second atmosphere, and thirdatmosphere, may be substantially an inert atmosphere. At least two ofthe first atmosphere, second atmosphere, and third atmosphere, may besubstantially similar. At least two of the first atmosphere, secondatmosphere, and third atmosphere, may equilibrate with each other.

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing comprises at least onecontroller that is collectively or separately programmed to perform thefollowing operations: operation (a) engage a build module with a loadlock area that is connected to a processing chamber comprising a secondatmosphere, wherein the build module comprises a platform and a firstatmosphere, wherein the load lock area comprises a third atmosphere; andoperation (b) print a 3D object according to a 3D printing method, which3D object is disposed adjacent to the platform and in the build module.

The build module may comprise a separate controller than the processingchamber, wherein the build module controller may control a disengagementof the build module from the processing chamber.

In another aspect, a computer software product for 3D printing of atleast one 3D object, comprising a non-transitory computer-readablemedium in which program instructions are stored, which instructions,when read by a computer, cause the computer to perform operations thatcomprise: operation (a) engaging a build module with a load lock areathat is connected to a processing chamber comprising a first atmosphere,wherein the build module comprises a second atmosphere, wherein the loadlock area comprises a third atmosphere; and operation (b) printing a 3Dobject that is disposed adjacent to the platform and in the buildmodule.

In another aspect, a system for forming a 3D object comprises: aprocessing chamber comprising a first atmosphere; a load lock areacomprising a second atmosphere, which load lock area is connected to theprocessing chamber; a build module that is reversibly connected to theprocessing chamber, wherein the build module comprises a thirdatmosphere; and at least one controller operatively coupled to the buildmodule, the load lock area and the processing chamber, which at leastone controller is programmed to direct performance of the followingoperations: operation (i) engage a build module with a load lock area,operation (ii) print the 3D object in the build module, and operation(iii) disengage the build module comprising the 3D object, from the loadlock area.

At least two of operation (i), operation (ii), and operation (iii) maybe directed by the same controller. At least one controller may be amultiplicity of controllers and wherein at least two of operation (i),operation (ii), and operation (iii) may be directed by differentcontrollers.

In another aspect, a method for generating a 3D object, comprises: (a)engaging a base with a substrate to form a platform comprising engaginga first fixture with a second fixture to restrict at least one degree ofmovement of the base relative to the substrate, which first fixture isoperatively coupled or is part of the base, which second fixture isoperatively coupled to or is part of the substrate, wherein the platformcomprises an exposed surface of the base that can be used for 3Dprinting of the 3D object; and (b) printing the 3D object above theplatform.

Engaging may be automatically engaging. Fastening the base to thesubstrate by using a fastener that may be configured to constrain themovement of the base and the substrate may be performed after (a). Theentire exposed surface of the base may be used for the 3D printing. Theengaging may be reversible. The substrate may be operatively coupled toa stopper. The second fixture may be operatively coupled to or may bepart of the stopper. Engaging the base with the substrate may comprisetranslation of the base relative to the substrate. Translating maycomprise aligning. Aligning may comprise guiding the base to engage withthe substrate. The substrate may be operatively coupled to a stopperthat stops the translation of the base. The first fixture and/or thesecond fixture may comprise a cross section having a geometrical shape.The first fixture may be a part of a first fixture set comprising afirst plurality of fixtures that may be operatively coupled to or may bea part of the base, wherein the second fixture may be a part of a secondfixture set comprising a second plurality of fixtures that may beoperatively coupled to or may be a part of the substrate, wherein thefirst fixture set engages with the second fixture set to restrict atleast one degree of movement of the base relative to the substrate.

At least two fixtures of the first fixture set may have the same shape.At least two fixtures of the first fixture set may have a differentshape. At least two fixtures of the second fixture set may have the sameshape. At least two fixtures of the second fixture set may have adifferent shape. The first fixture may be complementary to the secondfixture. Complementary may comprise mirroring. Complementary maycomprise matching. The base may have a different horizontalcross-sectional shape than the horizontal cross-sectional shape of thesubstrate. The base may have a similar horizontal cross-sectional shapethan the horizontal cross-sectional shape of the substrate. The firstfixture or the second fixture may comprise a protrusion. The firstfixture or the second fixture may comprise an indentation. The firstfixture or the second fixture may comprise a charge. A first charge ofthe first fixture may be opposite to a second charge of the secondfixture. A fixture may comprise a 3D (3D) shape. A fixture may comprisea dove-tail. Engaging may comprise inserting a portion of the base intoa portion of the substrate. Engaging may comprise kinematic coupling.The first fixture and the second fixture may be self-aligning. The firstfixture and the second fixture may be self-affixing.

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject, comprises: a platform comprising a substrate and a base abovewhich at least a portion of the 3D object is printed; a first fixturethat is operatively coupled to or is part of the base, which firstfixture comprises: (i) a first protrusion (ii) a first indentation or(iii) a first charge; and a second fixture operatively coupled to or isa part of the substrate, which second fixture comprises: (i) a secondprotrusion (ii) a second indentation or (iii) a second charge, wherein acoupling of the first protrusion with the second indentation isconfigured to restrict at least one degree of movement of the baserelative to the substrate, wherein a coupling of the second protrusionwith the first indentation is configured to restrict at least one degreeof movement of the base relative to the substrate, wherein the firstcharge is opposite to the second charge, and wherein the coupling of thefirst charge with the second charge is configured to restrict at leastone degree of movement of the base relative to the substrate.

A first charge source may generate the first charge, and a second chargesource may generate the second charge. The first charge and the secondcharge may be generated by the same charge source. The first charge andthe second charge may be generated by different charge sources. Thecharge may be a magnetic charge. The charge may be an electric charge. Afastener may be operatively coupled to the platform, which fastener maybe configured to fasten the base to the substrate to constrain themovement of the base and the substrate. The coupling may comprisekinematic coupling. The coupling of the first fixture with the secondfixture may be self-aligning. The coupling of the first fixture with thesecond fixture may be self-coupling. The first fixture and the secondfixture may attract each other. An aligner may be operatively coupled tothe substrate and/or base, which aligner may be configured to guide theengagement of the base with the substrate.

In another aspect, a system for forming at least one 3D object,comprises: a platform comprising a substrate and a base above which atleast a portion of the 3D object is printed; a first fixture that isoperatively coupled to or is part of the base, which first fixturecomprises: (i) a first protrusion (ii) a first indentation or (iii) afirst charge; a second fixture that is operatively coupled to or is apart of a substrate, which second fixture comprises: (i) a secondprotrusion (ii) a second indentation or (iii) a second charge; an energysource that is configured to generate an energy beam that transforms apre-transformed material to form at least a portion of the 3D object;and at least one controller that is operatively coupled to the base,platform, and energy beam, which at least one controller is collectivelyor separately programmed to direct performance of the followingoperations: operation (i) direct engaging the base with the substrate toform the platform, wherein engaging comprises engaging the first fixturewith the second fixture to restrict at least one degree of movement ofthe base relative to the platform, and operation (ii) direct the energybeam to transform the pre-transformed material to print at least aportion of the 3D object.

A material bed may be disposed adjacent to the platform. The materialbed may comprise the pre-transformed material. The energy beam mayirradiate at least a portion of the pre-transformed material in thematerial bed to print the at least the portion of the 3D object. A firstcharge source may generate a first charge and a second charge source maygenerate a second charge opposite to the first charge. The first chargesource and the second charge source may be the same charge source. Thefirst charge source and the second charge source may be different chargesources. The charge may be a magnetic charge. The charge may be anelectric charge. A fastener may be operatively coupled to the platform.The fastener can be configured to fasten the base to the substrate. Thefastener may constrain the movement of the base relative to thesubstrate. The first fixture may be a part of a first fixture setcomprising a first plurality of fixtures that may be operatively coupledto or may be a part of the base. The second fixture may be a part of asecond fixture set comprising a second plurality of fixtures that may beoperatively coupled to or may be a part of the substrate. The firstfixture set may engage with the second fixture set to restrict at leastone degree of movement of the base relative to the substrate. At leasttwo fixtures of the first fixture set may have the same shape. At leasttwo fixtures of the first fixture set may have a different shape. Atleast two fixtures of the second fixture set may have the same shape. Atleast two fixtures of the second fixtures set may have a differentshape. The first fixture may be complementary to the second fixture.Complementary may comprise mirroring. Complementary may comprisematching. The base may have a different horizontal cross-sectional shapethan the horizontal cross-sectional shape of the substrate. The base mayhave a similar horizontal cross-sectional shape than the horizontalcross-sectional shape of the substrate. The first fixture or the secondfixture may comprise a protrusion. The first fixture or the secondfixture may comprise an indentation. The first charge of the firstfixture may be opposite to the second charge of the second fixture. Thefirst fixture and/or the second fixture may comprise a three-dimensional(3D) shape. The first fixture and/or the second fixture may comprise adove-tail.

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprising at least one controller that is collectively orseparately programmed to perform the following operations: operation (a)engage a base with a substrate to form a platform comprising engaging afirst fixture with a second fixture to restrict at least one degree ofmovement of the base relative to the substrate, which first fixture isoperatively coupled or is part of the base, which second fixture isoperatively coupled to or is part of the substrate, wherein at least aportion of the 3D object is printed above the base; and operation (b)direct printing the 3D object above the base.

The at least one controller may be operatively coupled to an energybeam. The at least one controller may be programmed to direct the energybeam to transform the at least a portion of a material bed. The platformmay be configured to accommodate the material bed, to form the at leasta portion of the 3D object. Operation (a) may be performedautomatically. During operation (b), an exposed surface of the base maybe completely free for the printing.

In another aspect, a computer software product for 3D printing of atleast one 3D object, comprising a non-transitory computer-readablemedium in which program instructions are stored, which instructions,when read by a computer, cause the computer to perform operations thatcomprise: operation (a) direct engagement of a base with a substrate toform a platform comprising engaging a first fixture with a secondfixture to restrict at least one degree of movement of the base relativeto the substrate, which first fixture is operatively coupled or is partof the base, which second fixture is operatively coupled to or is partof the substrate, wherein the platform comprises an exposed surface ofthe base that can be used for 3D printing of the 3D object; andoperation (b) directing printing of the 3D object above the platform.

The operations may further comprise directing an energy beam totransform the at least a portion of a material bed. The platform may beconfigured to accommodate the material bed, to form the at least aportion of the 3D object. The energy beam may be operatively coupled tothe material bed. During operation (b), an exposed surface of the basemay be completely free for the printing.

In another aspect, a method for generating a 3D object, comprises: (a)engaging a first component with a second component, which firstcomponent is operatively coupled to or is a part of a build module,which second component is operatively coupled to a processing chamber,wherein the first component is supported by the second component uponengagement, wherein the engagement is configured at least in part tosecure the build module to the processing chamber, wherein the buildmodule comprises a platform, and wherein the processing chambercomprises an energy beam; and (b) using the energy beam to print the 3Dobject above the platform.

Engaging may comprise automatically engaging. Engaging may comprisepreserving an atmosphere formed by converging a build module atmospherewith a processing chamber atmosphere. Engaging may comprise reducing anexchange of an ambient atmosphere with an atmosphere formed byconverging a build module atmosphere with a processing chamberatmosphere. The build module may be translated to allow engagement ofthe first component with the second component. At least one controllermay control the engaging. The translating may comprise verticallytranslating. At least one controller may control the translating. Atleast one controller may control the printing. Engaging may compriseclamping. The engaging may comprise forming a gas tight contact. The gastight contact may comprise a metal to metal contact. The platform maycomprise a material bed. The energy beam may transform at least aportion of the material bed to form the 3D object. Printing the 3Dobject may comprise irradiating a pre-transformed material with theenergy beam to form a transformed material as part of the 3D object. Thematerial bed may comprise a pre-transformed material. Thepre-transformed material may comprise an elemental metal, metal alloy,ceramic, allotrope of elemental carbon, polymer, or a resin. The energybeam may be an electromagnetic beam or a charged particle beam.

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject, comprises: a build module comprising a first component that isconfigured to be supported, which first component is operatively coupledto or is a part of the build module, wherein the build module comprisesa platform; a processing chamber comprising a second component that isoperatively coupled to the processing chamber, which second component isconfigured to support the first component upon engagement of the firstcomponent with the second component, which first component and secondcomponent are configured to engage with each other; and an energy sourcethat is configured to generate an energy beam that travels through atleast a portion of the processing chamber and is used to print the 3Dobject above the platform.

The first component may comprise a plurality of segments. The secondcomponent may comprise a plurality of parts. The first plurality ofparts may comprise one or more pairs. Each pair of the plurality ofparts may be operatively coupled to opposing sides of the build module.A part of the plurality of parts may be configured to carry the weightof at least about 100 Kilograms. The first component may be configuredat least in part to engage the build module with the processing chamber.The first component may be configured to carry the weight of (i) thebuild module, (ii) the 3D object, (iii) a material bed in which the 3Dobject is embedded during printing, or (iv) any combination thereof. Thesecond component may be configured to support the weight of (i) thebuild module, (ii) the 3D object, (iii) a material bed in which the 3Dobject is embedded during printing, or (iv) any combination thereof. Thefirst component may be configured to carry the weight of at least about100 Kilograms. The first component may be configured to carry the weightof at least about 500 Kilograms. The first component may comprise awheel or an O-ring. The second component may comprise a slanted surfacewith respect to the: horizon or platform. The first component maycomprise an O-ring. The O-ring may be configured to be squeezed to allowa contact between the first component and the second component that isgas-tight. The first component may comprise an O-ring. The O-ring may beconfigured to be squeezed to allow a contact between the first componentand the second component that is a metal-to-metal contact. The firstcomponent may comprise metal. The second component may comprise metal.The first component may comprise a first metallic surface. The secondcomponent may comprise a second metallic surface that contacts at leasta portion of the first metallic surface upon engagement. The secondcomponent may be directly operatively coupled to the processing chamber.The second component may be indirectly operatively coupled to theprocessing chamber. The first component may be directly operativelycoupled to the build module. The first component may be indirectlyoperatively coupled to the build module. The second component may beoperatively coupled to a load-lock that is operatively coupled to theprocessing chamber. The second component may be operatively coupled tothe processing chamber through a load-lock. The load lock may bephysically coupled to the processing chamber. A translation mechanismmay comprise an actuator. The translation mechanism may be configured totranslate the build module to facilitate the engagement. The firstcomponent and the second component may be interlocking components of aninterlocking mechanism. The first component and the second component maybe clamping components of a clamping mechanism. The translationmechanism may translate the build module in a vertical manner. A contactmay be formed on coupling between the first component and the secondcomponent. The contact may be gas-tight. The contact may comprise ametal to metal contact.

In another aspect, a system for forming at least one 3D object,comprises: a build module comprising a first component that isconfigured to be supported, which first component is operatively coupledto or is a part of the build module, wherein the build module comprisesa platform; a processing chamber comprising a second component, whichsecond component is configured to support the first component uponengagement of the first component with the second component, which firstcomponent and second component are configured to engage with each other,which second component is operatively coupled to the processing chamber;an engagement mechanism, the engagement mechanism configured to securethe build module to the processing chamber; an energy source that isconfigured to generate an energy beam that tat travels through at leasta portion of the processing chamber and is used to print the 3D objectabove the platform; and at least one controller that is operativelycoupled to the engagement mechanism, which at least one controller iscollectively or separately programmed to direct performance of thefollowing operations: operation (i) direct engaging the first componentwith the second component, wherein the first component is supported bythe second component upon engagement, wherein the engagement isconfigured to secure the build module to the processing chamber, andoperation (ii) direct using the energy beam to print the 3D object abovethe platform.

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprising at least one controller that is collectively orseparately programmed to perform the following operations: operation (a)direct engaging a first component with a second component, which firstcomponent is operatively coupled to or is a part of a build module,which second component is operatively coupled to a processing chamber,wherein the first component is supported by the second component uponengagement, wherein the engagement is configured to secure the buildmodule to the processing chamber, wherein the build module comprises aplatform, and wherein the processing chamber comprises an energy beam;and operation (b) direct using the energy beam to print the 3D objectabove the platform.

In another aspect, a computer software product for 3D printing of atleast one 3D object, comprising a non-transitory computer-readablemedium in which program instructions are stored, which instructions,when read by a computer, cause the computer to perform operationscomprising: operation (a) directing engaging a first component with asecond component, which first component is operatively coupled to or isa part of a build module, which second component is operatively coupledto a processing chamber, wherein the first component is supported by thesecond component upon engagement, wherein the engagement is configuredto secure the build module to the processing chamber, wherein the buildmodule comprises a platform, and wherein the processing chambercomprises an energy beam; and operation (b) directing using the energybeam to print the 3D object above the platform.

In another aspect, apparatus used in 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises: an energy source configured to generate an energy beamthat transforms a pre-transformed material to a transformed material toprint the at least one 3D object; a processing chamber in which theenergy beam travels to print the at least one 3D object, whichprocessing chamber comprises a first opening, wherein the processingchamber is operatively coupled to the energy source; a processingchamber shutter (e.g., lid) that reversibly shuts the first opening toseparate an internal processing chamber environment from an externalenvironment; a platform (e.g., substrate) adjacent to which the at leastone 3D object is printed; a build module container comprising theplatform (e.g., substrate), which build module comprises a secondopening; and a build module shutter that reversibly shuts the secondopening to separate an internal environment of the build module from theexternal environment (e.g., ambient environment), wherein the firstopening merges with the second opening during the 3D printing of the atleast one 3D object.

The build module shutter may couple to the processing chamber shutter(e.g., to facilitate merging the first opening with the second opening).The build module shutter may couple to the processing chamberautomatically, manually, or both automatically and manually. The buildmodule shutter may couple to the processing chamber shutter using aforce comprising magnetic, electric, electrostatic, hydraulic, orpneumatic force. The build module shutter can be configured to couple tothe processing chamber shutter using a physical engagement. The physicalengagement can comprise one or more latches links, or hooks. Theprocessing chamber shutter (e.g., lid) and/or the build module shutter(e.g., lid) can comprise one or more latches, links, or hooks. The buildmodule shutter may comprise a first portion and a second portion. Thefirst portion can be translatable relative to the second portion. Thefirst portion can be translatable relative to the second portion uponexertion of force. The force can comprise magnetic, electric,electrostatic, hydraulic, or pneumatic force. The processing chambershutter can comprise a pin. The build module shutter can comprise afirst portion and a second portion. The pin may facilitate furtherseparation of the first portion from the second portion. The pin can bepushed to further separate the first portion from the second portion.The processing chamber shutter can comprise a first seal. The first sealcan reduce (e.g., substantially prevent, practically prevent, orprevent) an atmospheric exchange between the external environment andthe internal processing chamber environment. The build module shuttercan comprise a second seal. The second seal may reduce (e.g.,substantially prevent, practically prevent, or prevent) an atmosphericexchange between the external environment and the internal build moduleenvironment. The second seal (and/or the first seal) can be a gas seal.The build module shutter can comprise a first portion and a secondportion that is translatable relative to the first portion (e.g., tofacilitate engagement or disengagement of the second seal with the buildmodule chamber). The second seal (and/or the first seal) may contact thebuild module shutter. The second seal (and/or the first seal) can engagewith the build module chamber when the first portion and the secondportion are close to each other. The second seal (and/or the first seal)can disengage with the build module when the first portion and thesecond portion are farther from each other. The second seal (and/or thefirst seal) may engage with the build module chamber when the firstportion contacts the second portion. The second seal (and/or the firstseal) may disengage with the build module chamber when the first portionand the second portion are separated by a gap. The apparatus may furthercomprise a translation mechanism comprising a shaft. The translationmechanism can be coupled to the processing chamber shutter and/or to thebuild module shutter. The translation mechanism can be configured tofacilitate translation of the processing chamber shutter and/or to thebuild module shutter. The translation mechanism may comprise a camfollower. The shaft can be at least a part of the cam follower (e.g.,the shaft may be included in the cam follower). The translationmechanism may comprise one or more rotating devices. The rotatingdevices may comprise wheels, cylinders, or balls.

In another aspect, an apparatus used in 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises at least one controller that is programmed to performthe following operations: operation (a) direct a build module to engagewith a processing chamber, which processing chamber comprises (I) afirst opening and (II) a processing chamber shutter that closes thefirst opening, which build module comprises (i) a second opening and(ii) a build module shutter that closes the second opening, and (iii) aplatform (e.g., substrate); operation (b) direct merging of the firstopening with the second opening; and operation (c) direct an energy beamto transform a pre-transformed material to a transformed material toprint the at least one 3D object by projecting in the processing chambertowards the platform (e.g., substrate).

Direct merging may comprise direct translating the processing chambershutter and the build module shutter. Direct translating can be awayfrom the first opening and/or second opening. Direct translating cancomprise direct engaging with a shaft. Direct translating can comprisedirect engaging with a cam follower. Direct merging can comprise directcoupling of the processing chamber shutter with the build moduleshutter. Direct merging can comprise direct separating a first portionof the build module shutter from a second portion of the build moduleshutter. Direct separation can comprise direct pushing or repelling thefirst portion away from the second portion. Direct separation cancomprise direct using a physical, magnetic, electronic, electrostatic,hydraulic, or pneumatic force actuator. Direct separation may comprisedirect using manual force. Direct separation can comprise direct pushinga pin to separate the first portion from the second portion. Theprocessing chamber shutter can comprise the pin. The first portion canbe a lateral portion. The second portion can be a lateral portion. Thefirst portion can be a horizontal portion. The second portion can be ahorizontal portion. The first portion can be separated from the secondportion by a vertical (separation) gap. Direct coupling can comprisedirect latching the build module shutter with the processing chambershutter. Direct latching can comprise direct translating a portion of(1) the build module shutter and/or (2) the processing chamber shutter.Direct translating can comprise direct rotating, swiveling, or swinging.Direct merging can comprise direct releasing at least one first sealdisposed adjacent to the first opening of the processing chamber and theprocessing chamber shutter. Direct merging can comprise direct releasingat least one second seal disposed adjacent to the second opening of thebuild module and the build module shutter. Direct merging can comprisedirect separating the first portion from the second portion to releaseat least one second seal that is disposed adjacent to the second openingof the build module and the build module shutter. At least two ofoperations (a) to (c) may be directed by the same controller. At leasttwo of operations (a) to (c) may be directed by different controllers.The at least one controller can be a plurality of controllers. Theplurality of controllers can be operatively coupled.

In another aspect, a method used in 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises: (a) engaging a build module with a processing chamber,which processing chamber comprises (I) a first opening and (II) aprocessing chamber shutter that closes the first opening, which buildmodule comprises (i) a second opening and (ii) a build module shutterthat closes the second opening, and (iii) a platform (e.g., substrate);(b) merging the first opening with the second opening; and (c) directingan energy beam to transform a pre-transformed material to a transformedmaterial to print the at least one 3D object by projecting the energybeam in the processing chamber towards the platform (e.g., substrate).

The platform may be configured to accommodate (e.g., and/or support) theat least one 3D object, e.g. during the printing. Merging can comprisetranslating the processing chamber shutter and the build module shutter.Translating can be away from the first opening and/or second opening.Translating can comprise engaging with a shaft. Translating can compriseengaging with a cam follower. Merging can comprise coupling theprocessing chamber shutter with the build module shutter. Merging cancomprise separating a first portion of the build module shutter from asecond portion of the build module shutter. Separating can comprisepushing or repelling the first portion away from the second portion.Separating can comprise using a physical, magnetic, electronic,electrostatic, hydraulic, or pneumatic force actuator. Separation maycomprise using manual force. Separating can comprise pushing a pin toseparate the first portion from the second portion. The processingchamber shutter can comprise the pin. The first portion can be a lateralportion, and wherein the second portion is a lateral portion. The firstportion can be a horizontal portion, and wherein the second portion is ahorizontal portion. The first portion can be separated from the secondportion by a vertical separation gap. Coupling can comprise latching ofthe build module shutter to the processing chamber shutter, or viceversa. Latching can comprise translating a portion of (1) the buildmodule shutter and/or (2) the processing chamber shutter. Translatingcan comprise direct rotating, swiveling, and/or swinging. Merging cancomprise releasing at least one first seal disposed adjacent to (1) thefirst opening of the processing chamber and (2) the processing chambershutter. Merging can comprise releasing at least one second sealdisposed (1) adjacent to the second opening of the build module and (2)the build module shutter. Merging can comprise separating the firstportion from the second portion to release at least one second seal thatis disposed adjacent to the second opening of the build module and thebuild module shutter.

In another aspect, a computer software product for 3D printing of atleast one 3D object, comprises a non-transitory computer-readable mediumin which program instructions are stored, which instructions, when readby a computer, cause the computer to perform operations comprising:operation (a) direct a build module to engage with a processing chamber,which processing chamber comprises (I) a first opening and (II) aprocessing chamber shutter that closes the first opening, which buildmodule comprises (i) a second opening and (ii) a build module shutterthat closes the second opening, and (iii) a platform (e.g., substrate);operation (b) direct merging of the first opening with the secondopening; and operation (c) direct an energy beam to transform apre-transformed material to a transformed material to print the at leastone 3D object by projecting in the processing chamber towards theplatform (e.g., substrate).

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing of one or more 3Dobjects comprises: an enclosure that is configured to facilitate aplurality of 3D printing cycles from a pre-transformed material, whereinone or more 3D objects are printed during each of the plurality of 3Dprinting cycles, which enclosure is configured to include a firstatmosphere that is different from an ambient atmosphere, which apparatusis configured to exclude at least one component of the ambientatmosphere from contacting (i) the pre-transformed material and/or (ii)the one or more 3D objects, during the plurality of 3D printing cycles.

The apparatus can be configured to exclude at least one component (e.g.,a reactive agent) of the ambient atmosphere from the pre-transformedmaterial and/or one or more 3D object, at least during thethree-dimensional printing. The at least one component of the ambientatmosphere can be a reactive agent that reacts with the pre-transformedmaterial during the three-dimensional printing to cause detectablematerial damage and/or structural damage to the three-dimensionalobject. The apparatus can be configured to exclude the ambientatmosphere from the enclosure (or any of its components such as a buildmodule and/or processing chamber, separately or collectively). Excludecan comprise evacuate or purge (e.g., using a pressurized gas source).The apparatus may further comprise a pump to evacuate the ambientatmosphere. Exclusion can comprise active exclusion (e.g., using apressurized gas source such as a gas cylinder or a pump). The apparatuscan further comprise using a pressured gas source. The pressurized gassource may have a pressure above the enclosure pressure, the buildmodule pressure, or above both the enclosure pressure and the buildmodule pressure. The pressurized gas in the pressurized gas source(e.g., gas cylinder) may be in a liquid state. While excluding theambient atmosphere, the pressurized gas may change a state of matter(transform from liquid to gas). The reactive agent can be humidity. Thereactive agent can be an oxidizing agent. The exclusion can be before,during and/or after the plurality of 3D printing cycles. The exclusioncan comprise an active or passive exclusion. The apparatus can furthercomprise a pressurized gas source that is configured to evacuate the atleast one component (e.g., the reactive agent). The apparatus canfurther comprise a pressurized gas source configured to evacuate the atleast one component of the ambient atmosphere. The apparatus can furthercomprise a sensor configured to monitor a concentration of the reactiveagent in the enclosure. The apparatus can be configured to exclude aplurality of components of the ambient atmosphere from contacting (i)the pre-transformed material and/or (ii) the one or more 3D objects,during the plurality of 3D printing cycles. The apparatus can beconfigured to exclude the ambient atmosphere from contacting (i) thepre-transformed material and/or (ii) the one or more 3D objects, duringthe plurality of 3D printing cycles. The first atmosphere can have afirst pressure that is above ambient pressure at least during theplurality of 3D printing cycles. The apparatus can further comprise apressurized gas source (e.g., coupled to at least one controller and/orvalve) that is configured to maintain the first pressure above theambient pressure at least during the plurality of 3D printing cycles.The apparatus can further comprise a pressurized gas source configuredto maintain the first pressure above the ambient pressure at leastduring the plurality of 3D printing cycles. The enclosure can comprise abuild module and a processing chamber. The build module can comprise asecond atmosphere. The processing chamber can comprise a thirdatmosphere. The build module may comprise a reversibly closable shutterthat is configured to maintain in the third atmosphere (i) at a pressureabove ambient pressure, (ii) at an inert atmosphere, (iii) as excludingof at least one component present in the ambient atmosphere, or (iv) anycombination thereof. The at least one component can be a reactive agentthat reacts with the pre-transformed material during thethree-dimensional printing. Exclusion can be to below a threshold (e.g.,threshold value or time dependent threshold function). The apparatus mayfurther comprise a force source configured to automatically actuate(e.g., close and/or open) the shutter. The force source may beconfigured to generate a force comprising mechanical, magnetic,pneumatic, hydraulic, electrostatic, or electric force. The force sourcemay comprise manual force. The shutter can be configured to be at leastin part manually actuated (e.g., opened and/or closed). The enclosure,processing chamber and/or build module can be configured to maintain apressure above an ambient pressure during the 3D printing of the one ormore 3D objects. The apparatus can further comprise a pressurized gassource (e.g., coupled to at least one controller and/or valve) that isconfigured to maintain the first atmosphere, second atmosphere, and/orthe third atmosphere at a pressure above the ambient pressure at leastduring the plurality of 3D printing cycles. The apparatus can furthercomprise a pressurized gas source configured to maintain the firstatmosphere, second atmosphere, and/or the third atmosphere at a pressureabove the ambient pressure at least during the plurality of 3D printingcycles. The build module and processing chamber can be configured toreversibly engage. Reversible engagement can comprise mechanical,electronic, electrostatic, pneumatic, hydraulic, magnetic, or anycombination thereof. Reversibly engagement can comprise manualreversible engagement. The build module can comprise a secondatmosphere. The processing chamber can comprise a third atmosphere. Uponengagement of the build module and the processing chamber, the secondatmosphere and the third atmosphere can merge to form the firstatmosphere. The build module can comprise a platform configured tosupport the one or more 3D objects and/or the pre-transformed material.The platform can be configured to vertically translate using atranslation mechanism comprising an encoder, vertical guide post,vertical screw, horizontal screw, linear motor, bearing, shaft, orbellow. The platform can be configured to be vertically translatableusing a translation mechanism comprising an optical encoder, magneticencoder, air bearing, ball bearing, or a scissor jack. The platform cancomprise an actuator configured to facilitate rotation of the platform.The rotation can be about a horizontal and/or a vertical axis. Theprocessing chamber can be configured to facilitate the printing of theone or more 3D objects from the pre-transformed material. The apparatuscan further comprise an energy source that is configured to generate anenergy beam that transforms the pre-transformed material into atransformed material as part of the 3D printing of the one or more 3Dobjects. The energy beam can irradiate in the processing chamber totransform the pre-transformed material into the transformed material.The apparatus can further comprise an unpacking station that isconfigured to facilitate unpacking of the one or more 3D objects fromthe pre-transformed material. The unpacking station can comprise afourth atmosphere that is different from the ambient atmosphere. Theunpacking station can be configured to facilitate unpacking of the oneor more 3D objects after at least one of the plurality of the printingcycles. The unpacking station can comprise a glove-box, or a roboticarm. The one or more 3D objects in the unpacking station can beaccessible from two or more spatial directions. The two or more spatialdirections can correspond to Cartesian directions (e.g., X, Y, and Z).The cartesian directions can comprise positive or negative Cartesiandirections. The two or more spatial direction can correspond to cardinalpoints (e.g., East, West, North, and South). The build module can beoperatively coupled to the unpacking station. The build module can bereversibly coupled to the unpacking station. The apparatus can furthercomprise a material delivery mechanism configured to deliver thepre-transformed material to the enclosure, which material deliverymechanism comprises an opening, and a fifth atmosphere. The materialdelivery mechanism can be configured to receive a new pre-transformedmaterial and/or a remainder of the pre-transformed material that was notused for printing of the one or more 3D objects. The apparatus canfurther comprise a reservoir of the pre-transformed material having asixth atmosphere. The reservoir can be configured to receive a newpre-transformed material and/or a remainder of the pre-transformedmaterial that was not used for printing of the one or more 3D objects.The first atmosphere, second atmosphere, third atmosphere, fourthatmosphere, fifth atmosphere, and/or sixth atmosphere can be (a) aboveambient pressure, (b) inert, (c) different from the ambient atmosphere,and/or (d) non-reactive with the pre-transformed material and/or one ormore 3D objects during the plurality of 3D printing cycles. The firstatmosphere, second atmosphere, third atmosphere, fourth atmosphere,fifth atmosphere, and/or sixth atmosphere can be non-reactive to adegree that does not cause at least one defect in the materialproperties and/or structural properties of the one or more 3D objects.The first atmosphere, second atmosphere, third atmosphere, fourthatmosphere, fifth atmosphere, and/or sixth atmosphere can benon-reactive to a detectable degree. At least two of the firstatmosphere, second atmosphere, third atmosphere, fourth atmosphere,fifth atmosphere, and/or sixth atmosphere can be detectibly the same. Atleast two of the first atmosphere, second atmosphere, third atmosphere,fourth atmosphere, fifth atmosphere, and/or sixth atmosphere can differ.

In another aspect, a method for 3D printing of one or more 3D objectscomprises: performing a plurality of 3D printing cycles in an enclosure,wherein each of the plurality of 3D printing cycles comprises printingone or more 3D object from a pre-transformed material, which enclosurecomprises a first atmosphere that is different from an ambientatmosphere, and which enclosure excludes the ambient atmosphere fromcontacting the pre-transformed material and/or one or more 3D objectsduring the plurality of 3D printing cycles.

The first atmosphere can have a pressure that is above ambient pressure.The enclosure can comprise a build module and a processing chamber. Themethod can further comprise reversibly engaging the build module andprocessing chamber. The method can further comprise engaging the buildmodule with the processing chamber. The build module can comprise asecond atmosphere that is different from the ambient atmosphere. Theprocessing chamber can comprise a third atmosphere that is differentfrom the ambient atmosphere. Subsequent to engaging, the secondatmosphere can merge with the third atmosphere. Subsequent to engaging,the second atmosphere can merge with the third atmosphere to form thefirst atmosphere. The method can further comprise irradiating an energybeam through the processing chamber to transform the pre-transformedmaterial into a transformed material to form the one or more 3D objects.The method can further can comprise transferring the one or more 3Dobjects from the processing chamber to an unpacking station. One or more3D object can be enclosed in the build module having a second atmospherethat is different from the ambient atmosphere. The method can furthercomprise unpacking the at least one 3D object from the pre-transformedmaterial. Unpacking can be in a fourth atmosphere that is different fromthe ambient atmosphere. The method can further comprise delivering thepre-transformed material to the enclosure as part of at least one of theplurality of 3D printing cycles. Delivering the pre-transformed materialcan comprise utilizing a material delivery mechanism comprising anopening and a fifth atmosphere that is different from the ambientatmosphere. The first atmosphere, second atmosphere, third atmosphere,fourth atmosphere, fifth atmosphere, and/or sixth atmosphere can be (a)above ambient pressure, (b) inert, (c) different from the ambientatmosphere, and/or (d) non-reactive with the pre-transformed materialand/or one or more 3D objects during the plurality of 3D printingcycles. Non-reactive can be to a degree that causes at least one defectin the material properties and/or structural properties of the one ormore 3D objects. Non-reactive can be to a detectable degree. At leasttwo of the first atmosphere, second atmosphere, third atmosphere, fourthatmosphere, fifth atmosphere, and/or sixth atmosphere can be detectiblythe same. At least two of the first atmosphere, second atmosphere, thirdatmosphere, fourth atmosphere, fifth atmosphere, and/or sixth atmospheremay differ. The method can further comprise transferring thepre-transformed from a reservoir to the enclosure during at least one ofthe plurality of 3D printing cycles. Transferring can comprisetransferring the pre-transformed material from the reservoir to theenclosure by using a material delivery mechanism. The method can furthercomprise excluding and/or removing a reactive agent from thepre-transformed material while excluding the ambient atmosphere fromcontacting the pre-transformed material. The reactive agent can comprisehumidity. The reactive agent can be an oxidizing agent.

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing of one or more 3Dobjects comprises one or more controllers configured to directperforming a plurality of 3D printing cycles in an enclosure, whereineach of the plurality of 3D printing cycles comprises printing one ormore 3D object from a pre-transformed material, which enclosurecomprises a first atmosphere that is different from an ambientatmosphere, which enclosure excludes the ambient atmosphere fromcontacting the pre-transformed material and/or one or more 3D objectsduring the plurality of 3D printing cycles, wherein the one or morecontrollers are operatively coupled to the enclosure.

The first atmosphere can have a pressure that is above ambient pressure.The enclosure can comprise a build module and a processing chamber. Theone or more controllers can be separately or collectively programmed todirect reversible engagement of the build module and the processingchamber, wherein the one or more controllers can be operatively coupledto the build module and to the processing chamber. The one or morecontrollers can be separately or collectively programmed to directengagement of the build module with the processing chamber. The buildmodule can comprise a second atmosphere that is different from theambient atmosphere. The processing chamber can comprise a thirdatmosphere that is different from the ambient atmosphere. Subsequent toengaging, the second atmosphere can merge with the third atmosphere.Subsequent to the engagement, the second atmosphere can merge with thethird atmosphere to form the first atmosphere. The one or morecontrollers can be separately or collectively programmed to directirradiation of an energy beam through the processing chamber totransform the pre-transformed material into a transformed material toform the one or more 3D objects. The one or more controller can beoperatively coupled to the energy beam. The one or more controllers canbe separately or collectively programmed to direct transfer of the oneor more 3D objects from the processing chamber to an unpacking station.One or more 3D object can be enclosed in the build module having asecond atmosphere that is different from the ambient atmosphere. The oneor more controller can be operatively coupled to the unpacking station.The one or more controllers can be separately or collectively programmedto direct unpacking of the at least one 3D object from thepre-transformed material. Unpacking can be in a fourth atmosphere thatis different from the ambient atmosphere. The one or more controllerscan be separately or collectively programmed to direct delivering of thepre-transformed material to the enclosure as part of at least one of theplurality of 3D printing cycles. Delivering of the pre-transformedmaterial can comprise utilizing a material delivery mechanism comprisingan opening and a fifth atmosphere that is different from the ambientatmosphere. The one or more controller can be operatively coupled to thematerial delivery mechanism. The first atmosphere, second atmosphere,third atmosphere, fourth atmosphere, fifth atmosphere, and/or sixthatmosphere can be (a) inert, (b) different from the ambient atmosphere,(c) above ambient pressure, and/or (d) non-reactive with thepre-transformed material and/or one or more 3D objects during theplurality of 3D printing cycles. Non-reactive can be to a degree thatcauses at least one defect in the material properties and/or structuralproperties of the one or more 3D objects. Non-reactive can be to adetectable degree. At least two of the first atmosphere, secondatmosphere, third atmosphere, fourth atmosphere, fifth atmosphere,and/or sixth atmosphere can be detectibly the same. At least two of thefirst atmosphere, second atmosphere, third atmosphere, fourthatmosphere, fifth atmosphere, and/or sixth atmosphere may differ. Theone or more controllers may be separately or collectively programed todirect at least one pressurized gas source (e.g., coupled to at leastone controller and/or valve) to control (e.g., maintain, or regulate)the first atmosphere, second atmosphere, third atmosphere, fourthatmosphere, fifth atmosphere, and/or sixth atmosphere at a pressureabove an ambient pressure. The one or more controller may be operativelycoupled to the at least one pressurized gas source. The pressurized gassource may comprise pump or a gas-cylinder. The one or more controllerscan be separately or collectively programed to direct at least onesensor to sense a pressure of the first atmosphere, second atmosphere,third atmosphere, fourth atmosphere, fifth atmosphere, and/or sixthatmosphere at a pressure above an ambient pressure, wherein the one ormore controllers are operatively coupled to the at least one sensor. Theone or more controllers can be separately or collectively programmed todirect transfer of the pre-transformed from a reservoir to the enclosureduring at least one of the plurality of 3D printing cycles. The one ormore controllers can be separately or collectively programmed to directtransfer of the pre-transformed material from the reservoir to theenclosure by directing a material delivery mechanism. The materialdelivery mechanism may comprise a material dispenser. The materialdelivery mechanism and reservoir may be, for example, the one disclosedin Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. US 62/477,848, titled“MATERIAL CONVEYANCE IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTERS,” filed on Mar. 28,2017, that is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The oneor more controller can be operatively coupled to the material deliverymechanism. The one or more controllers can be separately or collectivelyprogrammed to direct exclusion (e.g., extraction or purging) of areactive agent from the pre-transformed material while excluding atleast one component of the ambient atmosphere from contacting thepre-transformed material. The one or more controllers can be separatelyor collectively programmed to direct sensing (I) a pressure, (II) areactive agent, or (III) a temperature, or (IV) any combination thereof,in: (1) the first atmosphere, (2) second atmosphere, (3) thirdatmosphere, or (4) any combination thereof. The one or more controllerscan be operatively coupled to the at least one sensor. The reactiveagent can comprise humidity. The reactive agent can be an oxidizingagent. The one or more controllers can include a control schemecomprising open loop, or closed loop control. The one or morecontrollers can include a control scheme comprising feed forward orfeedback control. The one or more controllers can be configured todirect before, after, and/or during the plurality of 3D printing cycles.The one or more controllers can direct transport of the build module toand/or from the processing chamber. A direction of the transport cancomprise a horizontal or a vertical direction. The one or morecontrollers can be programmed to direct using one or more processors.

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises: a processing chamber configured to facilitate 3Dprinting of at least one 3D object, which processing chamber comprises afirst atmosphere; and a build module configured to accommodate the atleast one 3D object, which build module comprises a second atmosphere,which processing chamber and build module are configured to reversiblyengage, wherein the build module is configured to accommodate a positivepressure of the second atmosphere after the 3D printing (e.g., and afterthe disengagement of the build module from the processing chamber).

The build module can be configured to accommodate a positive pressure ofthe second atmosphere (i) after the three-dimensional printing of the atleast one three-dimensional object and (ii) after the disengagement ofthe build module from the processing chamber. The build module may beconfigured to facilitate regulation of (e.g., maintaining) the pressureof the second atmosphere after the printing to accommodate to be thepositive pressure. The positive pressure can be a pressure above ambientpressure. Reversible engagement can comprise mechanical, electronic,electrostatic, pneumatic, hydraulic, magnetic, or any combinationthereof. Reversible engagement may comprise manual reversibleengagement. During the printing, the pressure in the processing chamberand/or build module can be above ambient pressure. During the 3Dprinting of the at least one 3D object, the processing chamber and/orbuild module can be configured to maintain a pressure above an ambientpressure. During the 3D printing, the processing chamber and/or buildmodule can be configured to facilitate pressure regulation of the firstatmosphere and/or second atmosphere respectively to above ambientpressure. Above ambient pressure can comprise at least 0.3 pound persquare inch (PSI) above ambient pressure. The build module and/orprocessing chamber can be reversibly sealable. The build module and/orprocessing chamber can be reversibly sealable from the ambientatmosphere. The build module and/or processing chamber can comprise aseal. The seal may comprise a gas tight seal. The build module and/orprocessing chamber can passively exclude at least one component of theambient atmosphere (e.g., using a seal). The build module and/orprocessing chamber can actively exclude at least one component of theambient atmosphere (e.g., using a pressurized gas source). The firstatmosphere and/or second atmosphere (a) can be above ambient pressure,(b) can be inert, (c) can be different from the ambient atmosphere, (d)can be non-reactive with the pre-transformed material and/or one or more3D objects, (e) can comprise a reactive agent below a threshold value,or (f) any combination thereof, during the plurality of 3D printingcycles. The first atmosphere and/or second atmosphere can be replaced.Replacement of the first atmosphere and/or second atmosphere may beusing purging. Replacement may comprise using a pressurized gas source.The apparatus may further comprise a pressurized gas source configuredto replace, purge, and/or maintain a pressure and/or composition of thefirst atmosphere and/or second atmosphere. Replacement of the firstatmosphere and/or second atmosphere may be using a pump. The firstatmosphere and/or second atmosphere can be non-reactive is to adetectable degree. The first atmosphere and/or second atmosphere can benon-reactive to a degree that does not cause at least one defect in thematerial properties and/or structural properties of the one or more 3Dobjects (e.g., during at least one of the plurality of 3D printingcycles). The material properties can comprise cracks or pores. Thestructural properties can comprise warping, bulging, balling, or bendingThe first atmosphere and the second atmosphere can be detectably thesame. The first atmosphere and the second atmosphere can differ. Thebuild module can be configured to cool the at least one 3D object.Regulation of a pressure of the second atmosphere can be during coolingof the at least one 3D object. Cooling of the at least one 3D object canbe after the 3D printing (e.g., and after disengagement of the buildmodule from the processing chamber). Cooling of the at least one 3Dobject can be after disengagement of the build module from theprocessing chamber. Disengagement can be after the 3D printing of the atleast one 3D object. The build module can comprise a platform that isconfigured to vertically translate using a translation mechanismcomprising an encoder, vertical guide post, vertical screw, horizontalscrew, linear motor, bearing, shaft, or bellow. The platform can beconfigured to be vertically translatable using a translation mechanismcomprising an optical encoder, magnetic encoder, air bearing, ballbearing, or a scissor jack. The apparatus can further comprise an energysource that is configured to generate an energy beam that transforms apre-transformed material into a transformed material as part of the 3Dprinting of the at least one 3D object. The energy beam can irradiate inthe processing chamber to transform the pre-transformed material intothe transformed material. The build module can comprise a reversiblyclosable shutter that is configured to maintain in the third atmosphere(i) a pressure above ambient pressure, (ii) an inert atmosphere, (iii)exclusion of at least one component present in the ambient atmosphere,or (iv) any combination thereof. The at least one component present inthe ambient atmosphere can be a reactive agent, and wherein exclusioncomprises keeping the reactive agent below a threshold value in thethird atmosphere. The at least one component can be a reactive agentthat reacts with the pre-transformed material during thethree-dimensional printing. The apparatus may further comprise a forcesource configured to automatically actuate (e.g., close and/or open) theshutter. The force source can be configured to generate a forcecomprising mechanical, magnetic, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrostatic, orelectric force. The force source may comprise manual force. The shuttercan be configured to be at least in part manually actuated (e.g., openedand/or closed).

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises at least one controller is configured to direct thefollowing operations: operation (a) engage (i) a processing chambercomprising a first atmosphere with (ii) a build module comprising asecond atmosphere, which build module is configured to accommodate theat least one 3D object; operation (b) print the at least one 3D objectin an enclosure comprising the processing chamber and the build module;operation (c) disengage the build module from the processing chamberafter the 3D printing of the at least one 3D object; and operation (d)regulate a pressure of the second atmosphere after the 3D printing ofthe at least one 3D object to maintain a positive pressure that is abovean ambient pressure.

The first atmosphere and the second atmosphere can be detectably thesame. The first atmosphere and the second atmosphere can differ. Duringthe 3D printing, the pressure in the enclosure can be above ambientpressure. The second atmosphere can be merged with the first atmosphereduring operation (a) to form a third atmosphere. At least one controllercan be programed to direct at least one pressurized gas source (e.g.,container such as for example a cylinder) to maintain the firstatmosphere (e.g., using at least one valve), second atmosphere, and/orthird atmosphere, at a pressure above an ambient pressure. The at leastone controller can be operatively coupled to the at least onepressurized gas source. At least one controller can be programed todirect at least one source of pressurized gas (e.g., comprising agas-cylinder or a pump) to maintain the first atmosphere, secondatmosphere, and/or third atmosphere, at a pressure above an ambientpressure. The at least one controller can be operatively coupled to theat least one source of pressurized gas. Direct can be before, after,and/or during the three-dimensional printing. Direct can be before,after, during printing of the at least one 3D object, or any combinationthereof. The first atmosphere, the second atmosphere, and/or the thirdatmosphere can (I) above ambient pressure, (II) inert, (III) differentfrom the ambient atmosphere, and/or (IV) non-reactive with thepre-transformed material (and/or one or more 3D objects), during theplurality of 3D printing cycles. The first atmosphere, the secondatmosphere, and/or the third atmosphere can be non-reactive to a degreethat does not causes at least one defect in the material propertiesand/or structural properties of the one or more 3D objects (e.g., duringthe plurality of 3D printing cycles). The first atmosphere, the secondatmosphere, and/or the third atmosphere can be non-reactive to adetectable degree. The first atmosphere, the second atmosphere, and/orthe third atmosphere can be different from an ambient atmosphere. Atleast two of operations (a) to (d) can be directed by the samecontroller. At least two of operations (a) to (d) can be directed bydifferent controllers. At least one controller can be programmed todirect at least one of operations (a) to (d). At least one controllercan include a control scheme comprising open loop, or closed loopcontrol. At least one controller can include a control scheme comprisingfeed forward or feedback control. At least one controller can beconfigured to direct before, after, and/or during the plurality of 3Dprinting cycles. At least one controller can be further programmed todirect sensing (I) a pressure, (II) a reactive agent, a temperature, or(IV) any combination thereof, using at least one sensor The at least onecontroller can be operatively coupled to the at least one sensor. Thecontroller may control the amount of reactive agent to be below athreshold (e.g., as disclosed herein). The reactive agent can comprisehumidity. The reactive agent can be an oxidizing agent. Operation (d)can be during and/or after operation (c). The at least one controllercan be configured to direct reversibly sealing (e.g., seal and un-seal)of the build module and/or processing chamber. The at least onecontroller can be configured to direct reversibly sealing after the 3Dprinting and/or before disengaging the build module from the processingchamber. The at least one controller can be configured to directreversibly sealing after operation (b) and/or before operation (c). Thebuild module can be configured to facilitate reduction in a temperatureof the at least one 3D object (e.g., after the 3D printing and/or afterdisengagement of the build module from the processing chamber).Regulation of the pressure of the second atmosphere in operation (d) canbe during the reduction in the temperature of the at least one 3Dobject. The build module and/or processing chamber can be configured to(I) engage the build module with the processing chamber before theprinting and/or (II) disengage the build module from the processingchamber after the printing. The controller can be configured to directtransport of the build module to and/or from the processing chamber. Adirection of the transport can comprise a horizontal or a verticaldirection. The at least one controller can be programmed to direct anenergy beam to irradiate and transform a pre-transformed material into atransformed material as part of the 3D printing of the at least one 3Dobject. The energy beam can irradiate in the processing chamber totransform the pre-transformed material into the transformed material.The at least one controller can be programmed to direct the energy beamto irradiate and transform along a path that is related to the at leastone 3D object. The at least one controller can be programmed to directusing one or more processors.

In another aspect, a method for 3D printing comprises: (a) engaging aprocessing chamber having a first atmosphere with a build module havinga second atmosphere, which build module is configured to accommodate theat least one 3D object; (b) printing the at least one 3D object in anenclosure comprising the processing chamber and the build module; (c)disengaging the build module from the processing chamber after the 3Dprinting of the at least one 3D object; and (d) regulating a pressure ofthe second atmosphere after the 3D printing of the at least one 3Dobject, to maintain a positive pressure that is above an ambientpressure.

The method can further comprise maintaining the positive pressure in theprocessing chamber and/or build module above ambient pressure during the3D printing of the at least one 3D object. (d) can be during or after(c). The method can further comprise reversibly sealing the build moduleand/or processing chamber after the 3D printing of the at least one 3Dobject. The first atmosphere and/or the second atmosphere can be (a)above ambient pressure, (b) inert, (c) different from the ambientatmosphere, and/or (d) non-reactive with the pre-transformed materialand/or one or more 3D objects during the plurality of 3D printingcycles. The non-reactive can be to a degree that causes at least onedefect in the material properties and/or structural properties of theone or more 3D objects. The first atmosphere and/or the secondatmosphere can be non-reactive to a detectable degree. The firstatmosphere and the second atmosphere can be detectably the same. Thefirst atmosphere and the second atmosphere can differ. The method canfurther comprise reducing a temperature of the at least one 3D objectafter the 3D printing of the at least one 3D object. Regulating of thepressure of the second atmosphere in (d) can be during reducing thetemperature of the at least one 3D object. The method can furthercomprise transporting the build module to and/or from the processingchamber in a period other than during the 3D printing of the at leastone 3D object. The method can further comprise directing an energy beamto transform a pre-transformed material into a transformed material toprint the at least one 3D object. The directing can be along a path. Thepath can be related to the at least one 3D object.

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises: an unpacking station configured to facilitate removalof at least a portion of a starting material of the at least one 3Dobject from the at least one 3D object, which unpacking stationcomprises a first atmosphere; and a first build module configured toaccommodate the at least one 3D object and the starting material, whichfirst build module comprises a second atmosphere, which unpackingstation and first build module are configured to reversibly engage,wherein the unpacking station and/or first build module are configuredto accommodate a pressure above an ambient pressure at least during theremoval.

The unpacking station and/or first build module can be configured tomaintain a pressure above an ambient pressure during the removal. Duringthe removal, the unpacking station and/or first build module can beconfigured to facilitate pressure maintenance of the first atmosphereand/or second atmosphere respectively to above ambient pressure. Aboveambient pressure can comprise at least 0.3 pound per square inch (PSI)above ambient pressure. The apparatus may further comprise a pressurizedgas source. The pressurized gas source may comprise a pressurizedgas-cylinder. The gas cylinder may comprise a liquid that expands into agas. The starting material can be a pre-transformed material that istransformed to form the at least one 3D object during the 3D printing ofthe at least one 3D object. The starting material can be included in aremainder of a material bed that did not form the at least one 3Dobject. The unpacking station can be configured to facilitate removal ofthe remainder from the at least one 3D object. During the removal, thepressure in the unpacking station and/or first build module can be aboveambient pressure. The unpacking station and/or first build module can bereversibly sealable. The unpacking station and/or first build module cancomprise an opening. The opening can be reversibly sealable. Theunpacking station can comprise a first sealable opening by a first lidthat is reversibly removable (e.g., removable and engageable). The firstbuild module can comprise a second sealable opening by a second lid thatis reversibly removable. Upon engagement of the unpacking station withthe first build module, the first lid and second lid can translate tofacilitate (i) merging of the first atmosphere with the secondatmosphere, (ii) entrance of the at least one 3D object from the firstbuild module into the unpacking station (iii) merging of the firstopening with the second opening, (iv) or any combination thereof. Thefirst lid and the second lid can translate while being engaged. Thefirst lid can engage with the second lid prior to being translated. Afirst translation direction of the first lid can have a horizontaland/or vertical component. A second translation direction of the secondlid can have a horizontal and/or vertical component. The first directionand the second direction can be the same. The first direction and thesecond direction can differ. The apparatus can further comprise a firstactuator configured to translate the first lid, and a second actuatorconfigured to translate the second lid. The first actuator can bedifferent from the second actuator. The first actuator and the secondactuator can be the same actuator. The first and/or second actuator canbe coupled to a first shaft and/or second shaft, respectively. The firstand/or second actuator can be part of a first robot and/or second robot,respectively. The first and/or second actuator can be part of a firstpick-and-place system and/or second pick-and-place system, respectively.The first and/or second actuator pick-and-place system can comprise afirst and/or second shaft, respectively. The first and/or secondactuator can be controlled manually and/or automatically by at least onecontroller. The first and/or second actuator can be configured to beactuated before, during, and/or after removal of the starting material.The first build module can comprise an actuator that facilitatesvertically translate (i) a platform and/or (ii) the at least one 3Dobject. The unpacking station can comprise a vibrator. The first buildmodule can comprise a platform. The platform can be configured tovertically translate using a translation mechanism comprising anencoder, vertical guide post, vertical screw, horizontal screw, linearmotor, bearing, shaft, or bellow. The platform can be configured tovertically translate using a translation mechanism comprising an opticalencoder, magnetic encoder, air bearing, ball bearing, or a scissor jack.The platform can be configured to rotate, translate, tilt, and/orvibrate. The platform can be configured to rotate, translate, tilt,and/or vibrate, at least during the removal. The platform can beconfigured to rotate around a vertical and/or horizontal axis. The firstbuild module can comprise a first removable base that is configured tosupport the at least one 3D object. The first build module can comprisea platform. The first removable base can be disposed adjacent to theplatform. The first base can be configured to translate away from theplatform during and/or after the removal. The unpacking station cancomprise a second build module that is configured to (I) accommodate theat least one 3D object, (II) reversibly engaging with the unpackingstation, (III) accommodate a third atmosphere, (IV) translate to and/orfrom the unpacking station, or (V) any combination thereof. The secondbuild module can comprise a second base that is configured toaccommodate the at least one 3D object after the removal. The secondbuild module can be configured to maintain a pressure above an ambientpressure. The second build module can be configured to facilitatepressure maintenance of the third atmosphere to above ambient pressure.The maintenance of the third atmosphere to above ambient pressure can beduring a translation of the second build module to and/or from theunpacking station. The second build module can comprise a third openingthat is reversibly sealable by a third lid that is reversibly removablefrom the third opening (e.g., and to the opening). The apparatus mayfurther comprise one or more valves. The atmosphere in the build module(e.g., first and/or second build module) and/or unpacking station may bereplaced prior to entry of a pre-transformed material into the buildmodule and/or unpacking station. The one or more valves may be used toreplace (e.g., using suction and/or purging) the atmosphere in the buildmodule (e.g., first and/or second build module) and/or unpackingstation. The pressurized gas may be facilitated by a pressurized gassource. The pressurized gas source may comprise a pump or agas-cylinder. The first atmosphere, the second atmosphere, and the thirdatmosphere can be (a) above ambient pressure, (b) inert, (c) differentfrom the ambient atmosphere, and/or (d) non-reactive with thepre-transformed material and/or one or more 3D objects during theplurality of 3D printing cycles. The first atmosphere, the secondatmosphere, and the third atmosphere can be non-reactive to a degreethat does not cause at least one defect in the material propertiesand/or structural properties of the one or more 3D objects. The firstatmosphere, the second atmosphere, and the third atmosphere can benon-reactive to a detectable degree. At least two of the firstatmosphere, the second atmosphere, and the third atmosphere, can bedetectibly the same. At least two of the first atmosphere, the secondatmosphere, and the third atmosphere can differ. The unpacking stationcan be configured to facilitate contacting and/or manipulating the atleast one 3D object from two or more spatial directions. The two or morespatial directions can comprise north, south, east, west, top, andbottom directions. Bottom can be in a direction towards a secondplatform adjacent to which the one or more 3D objects are disposed. Thetwo or more directions can correspond to Cartesian directions. TheCartesian directions can comprise positive or negative Cartesiandirections. The two or more direction can correspond to cardinal points.The contacting can comprise using a live or inanimate operator. Theinanimate operator can comprise a shaft or an actuator. The inanimateoperator can comprise a robot. The live operator can be a human. Thecontacting can be directly contacting. The contacting can be indirectlycontacting.

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises at least one controller that is configured to directthe following operations: Operation (a) reversible engaging of (i) afirst build module that accommodates the at least one 3D object and astarting material of the at least one 3D object, with (ii) an unpackingstation that comprises a first atmosphere, which build module comprisesa second atmosphere; and Operation (b) removing of at least a portion ofthe starting material of the at least one 3D object from the at leastone 3D object, wherein the unpacking station and/or first build moduleare configured to accommodate a pressure above an ambient pressure atleast during the removal.

During removal of the at least the portion of the starting material, theat least one controller can be configured to direct maintaining apressure above an ambient pressure in the unpacking station and/or firstbuild module. Above ambient pressure can comprise at least 0.3 pound persquare inch (PSI) above ambient pressure. The starting material can be apre-transformed material that is transformed to form the at least one 3Dobject during the 3D printing of the at least one 3D object. Duringremoval of the at least the portion of the starting material, thepressure in the processing chamber and/or first build module can beabove ambient pressure. The unpacking station can comprise a firstopening that is reversibly sealable by a first lid. The first buildmodule can comprise a second opening that is reversibly sealable by asecond lid (e.g., sealed and become un-sealed by the second lid).Unsealed may comprise opened. The first lid and/or second lid can betranslatable. Upon and/or after engagement of the unpacking station withthe first build module, the at least one controller can be collectivelyor separately configured to direct translation of a first lid and/or asecond lid to facilitate (I) merging of the first atmosphere with thesecond atmosphere, (II) entrance of the at least one 3D object from thefirst build module into the unpacking station (III) merging of the firstopening with the second opening, (IV) coupling the first lid with thesecond lid, (V) translating the first lid and the second lid, or (VI)any combination thereof. The first build module can engage with theunpacking station through a second load lock. The at least onecontroller can be collectively or separately configured to directtranslation of a first lid and/or a second lid while the first buildmodule is engaged with the unpacking station. The first lid can becoupled to the second lid during and/or after engagement of the firstbuild module with the processing chamber. The first lid can be coupledto the second lid prior to the translation. A first translationdirection of the first lid can have a horizontal and/or verticalcomponent. A second translation direction of the second lid can have ahorizontal and/or vertical component. The first direction and the seconddirection can be the same. The first direction and the second directioncan differ. The at least one controller can be collectively orseparately configured to direct an actuator to cause verticaltranslation of a platform and/or of the at least one 3D object. At leastone controller can be collectively or separately configured to directrotation, horizontal translation, tilting, and/or vibration of theplatform. Rotation, translation, tilting, and/or vibration of theplatform can be at least during removing of the at least the portion ofthe starting material. The rotation can be around a vertical and/orhorizontal axis. The first build module can comprise a first removablebase that is configured to support the at least one 3D object. The firstbuild module can comprise a platform. The first removable base can bedisposed adjacent to the platform. The build module can comprise a firstbase adjacent to which the at least one 3D object is disposed. At leastone controller can be collectively or separately configured to directtranslation of a first base away from the platform during and/or afterthe removal. At least one controller can be collectively or separatelyconfigured to direct (I) transfer of the at least one 3D object to asecond build module, (II) reversible engagement of the second buildmodule with the unpacking station, (III) maintenance of a thirdatmosphere in the second build module, (IV) translation of the secondbuild module to and/or from the unpacking station, or (V) anycombination thereof. Maintenance of the third atmosphere in the secondbuild module can comprise maintenance of an atmosphere that (1) has apressure above ambient pressure, (2) is inert, (3) is different from theambient atmosphere, (4) is non-reactive with the pre-transformedmaterial and/or one or more 3D objects during the plurality of 3Dprinting cycles, (5) comprises a reactive agent below a threshold, or(6) any combination thereof. Maintenance of the pressure of the thirdatmosphere to above ambient pressure can be during a translation of thesecond build module to and/or from the unpacking station. At least onecontroller can be collectively or separately configured to directremoval and/or engagement of a third lid from or with a third opening ofthe second build module, respectively. At least one controller can becollectively or separately configured to direct removal and/orengagement of a fourth lid from or with a fourth opening of theunpacking station, respectively. At least one controller can becollectively or separately configured to direct engagement of the secondbuild module with the unpacking station. The second build module canengage with the unpacking station by (I) merging the third opening withthe fourth opening, (II) coupling the third lid to the fourth lid, (III)translating the third lid and the fourth lid, (IV) merging the firstatmosphere and the third atmosphere, (V) translating the at least one 3Dobject from the unpacking station to the second build module, or (VI)any combination thereof. The second build module can engage with theunpacking station through a first load lock. At least one controller canbe collectively or separately configured to direct entrance and/orremoval of the at least one 3D object to or from the unpacking station,respectively. At least one controller can be collectively or separatelyconfigured to direct entrance and/or removal of a first base to or fromthe unpacking station respectively. The first base can be part of thefirst build module. At least one controller can be collectively orseparately configured to direct entrance and/or removal of a second baseto or from the unpacking station respectively. The second base can bepart of the second build module. The first atmosphere, the secondatmosphere, and/or the third atmosphere can be (a) above ambientpressure, (b) inert, (c) different from the ambient atmosphere, and/or(d) non-reactive with the pre-transformed material and/or one or more 3Dobjects during the plurality of 3D printing cycles. The firstatmosphere, the second atmosphere, and the third atmosphere can benon-reactive to a degree that does not cause at least one defect in thematerial properties and/or structural properties of the one or more 3Dobjects (e.g., which defect is caused during the printing). The firstatmosphere, the second atmosphere, and/or the third atmosphere can benon-reactive to a detectable degree. At least two of the firstatmosphere, the second atmosphere, and the third atmosphere can bedetectibly the same. At least two of the first atmosphere, the secondatmosphere, and the third atmosphere can differ. The unpacking stationcan be configured to facilitate contacting and/or manipulating the atleast one 3D object from two or more spatial directions. At least onecontroller can be collectively or separately configured to directcontacting the at least one 3D object. Direct contacting can comprisedirecting usage of a shaft or an actuator. Contacting can be indirectand/or direct contacting.

In another aspect, a method for 3D printing of at least one 3D objectcomprises: (a) reversibly engaging (i) a first build module thataccommodates the at least one 3D object and a starting material of theat least one 3D object, with (ii) an unpacking station that comprises afirst atmosphere, which build module comprises a second atmosphere; and(b) removing at least a portion of the starting material of the at leastone 3D object from the at least one 3D object, wherein the unpackingstation and/or first build module are configured to accommodate apressure above an ambient pressure at least during the removal.

The method can further comprise during the removing, maintaining apressure above an ambient pressure in the unpacking station and/or firstbuild module. Above ambient pressure can comprise at least half (0.5) apound per square inch (PSI) above ambient pressure. The startingmaterial can be a pre-transformed material that is transformed to formthe at least one 3D object during the 3D printing of the at least one 3Dobject. During the removing of the at least the portion of the startingmaterial, the pressure in the processing chamber and/or first buildmodule can be above ambient pressure. The unpacking station can comprisea first opening that is reversibly sealable by a first lid. The firstbuild module can comprise a second opening that is reversibly sealableby a second lid, wherein the method further comprises translating thefirst lid and/or second lid. Translating of the first lid and/or thesecond lid can be while the first build module is engaged with theunpacking station. Translating of the first lid and/or the second lidcan be upon and/or after reversibly engaging the unpacking station withthe first build module to facilitate (I) merging of the first atmospherewith the second atmosphere, (II) entrance of the at least one 3D objectfrom the first build module into the unpacking station (III) merging ofthe first opening with the second opening, (IV) coupling the first lidwith the second lid, (V) translating the first lid and the second lid,or (VI) any combination thereof. The first lid can be coupled to thesecond lid during and/or after engagement of the first build module withthe processing chamber. The first lid can be coupled to the second lidprior to translating. The method can further comprise verticallytranslating a platform and/or the at least one 3D object. The method canfurther comprise rotating, tilting, horizontally translating and/orvibrating the platform. Rotating, tilting, horizontally translatingand/or vibrating the platform can be at least during the removing of theat least the portion of the starting material. Rotating can be around avertical and/or horizontal axis. The method can further comprisetranslating a first removable base, wherein the first build modulecomprises a platform and the first removable base disposed adjacent tothe platform adjacent to which the at least one 3D object is disposed.Translating of the first removable base can be during and/or afterremoving the at least the portion of the starting material. Translatingof the first removable base can be away from the platform, unpackingstation, and/or at least one 3D object. The method can further comprise(I) transferring the at least one 3D object to a second build module,(II) reversibly engaging of the second build module with the unpackingstation, (III) maintaining a third atmosphere in the second buildmodule, and/or (IV) translating the second build module to and/or fromthe unpacking station. Maintaining the third atmosphere in the secondbuild module can comprise maintaining an atmosphere that (1) has apressure above ambient pressure, (2) is inert, (3) is different from theambient atmosphere, and/or (4) is non-reactive with the pre-transformedmaterial and/or one or more 3D objects during the plurality of 3Dprinting cycles. Maintaining the pressure of the third atmosphere toabove ambient pressure can be during a translation of the second buildmodule to and/or from the unpacking station. The method can furthercomprise removing and/or engaging of a third lid from or with a thirdopening of the second build module, respectively. The method can furthercomprise removing and/or engaging a fourth lid from or with a fourthopening of the unpacking station, respectively. The method can furthercomprise removing and/or engaging the second build module with theunpacking station. The second build module can engage with the unpackingstation by (I) merging the third opening with the fourth opening, (II)coupling the third lid to the fourth lid, (III) translating the thirdlid and the fourth lid, (IV) merging the first atmosphere and the thirdatmosphere, (V) translating the at least one 3D object from theunpacking station to the second build module, or (VI) any combinationthereof. The second build module can engage with the unpacking stationthrough a first load lock. The method can further comprise enteringand/or exiting the at least one 3D object to or from the unpackingstation, respectively. The method can further comprise entering and/orexiting a first base to or from the unpacking station respectively. Thefirst base can be part of the first build module. The method can furthercomprise entering and/or exiting a second base to or from the unpackingstation respectively. The second base can be part of the second buildmodule. The method can further comprise contacting and/or manipulatingthe at least one 3D object from two or more spatial directions.Contacting can comprise using of a shaft or an actuator. Contacting canbe indirect and/or direct contacting.

In another aspect, an apparatus used in 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises a processing chamber which is configured to facilitateprinting of the at least one 3D object, which processing chambercomprises a first opening; a processing chamber shutter that isconfigured to reversibly shut the first opening to separate an internalprocessing chamber environment from an external environment; a buildmodule container that comprises a second opening; and a build moduleshutter that is configured to (i) shut the second opening to separate aninternal environment of the build module from the external environment,and (ii) shut the second opening to separate an internal environment ofthe build module from the processing chamber after the 3D printing, andwherein the build module is configured to accommodate the at least one3D object that is printed by the 3D printing.

The build module shutter may be further configured to maintain in thethird atmosphere (i) a pressure above ambient pressure, (ii) an ambientatmosphere, (iii) an exclusion of at least one component present in theambient atmosphere, or (iv) any combination thereof The at least onecomponent can be a reactive agent that reacts with the pre-transformedmaterial during the three-dimensional printing. Exclusion can be tobelow a threshold. The apparatus may further comprise a force sourceconfigured to automatically actuate (e.g., close and/or open) theshutter. The the shutter may be shut and/or opened (at least in part)manually. For example, the opening and/or closing of the shutter can beperformed manually and/or automatically. The force source can beconfigured to generate a force comprising mechanical, magnetic,pneumatic, hydraulic, electrostatic, or electric force. The force sourcemay comprise manual force. The processing chamber and/or build modulecontainer can be configured to maintain a pressure above an ambientpressure during the 3D printing of the at least one 3D object. Duringthe 3D printing of the at least one 3D object, the processing chamberand/or build module can be configured to facilitate pressure maintenanceof the first atmosphere and/or the second atmosphere respectively toabove ambient pressure. Above ambient pressure can comprise at least 0.3pound per square inch (PSI) above ambient pressure. Shut can compriseseal (e.g., gas seal). Reversibly shut can comprise reversibly sealable.The build module shutter can be sealable from the ambient atmosphere.The first atmosphere and/or the second atmosphere can be (a) aboveambient pressure, (b) inert, (c) different from the ambient atmosphere,(d) non-reactive with the pre-transformed material and/or one or more 3Dobjects, (e) comprise a reactive agent below a threshold value, or (f)any combination thereof, e.g., during the plurality of 3D printingcycles. The reactive agent (e.g., oxygen or water) can react with thestarting material (e.g., pre-transformed material) of the at least onethree-dimensional object (e.g., during the printing). The firstatmosphere and/or the second atmosphere can be non-reactive to adetectable degree. The first atmosphere and/or the second atmosphere canbe non-reactive to a degree that does not cause at least one defect inthe material properties and/or structural properties of the one or more3D objects. The material properties can comprise cracks or pores. Thematerial properties may comprise a reaction product of the material(e.g., pre-transformed or transformed) with a reactive agent. Thereaction product may comprise oxides, for example, metal oxides. Thematerial properties may comprise crack propagation defects, materialresistance to fatigue, tensile strength, elongation to failure, orembrittlement. The structural properties can comprise warping, bulging,balling, or bending. The internal environments of the processing chamberand of the build module container can be detectably the same. Theinternal environments of the processing chamber and of the build modulecontainer can differ. The build module container can be configured tocool the at least one 3D object. Regulation of a pressure of theinternal environments of the build module container can be during thecooling of the at least one 3D object. Cooling of the at least one 3Dobject can be (i) after the three-dimensional printing, (ii) afterdisengagement of the build module container from the processing chamber,or (iii) after the three-dimensional printing and after disengagement ofthe build module container from the processing chamber. Disengagementcan be after the 3D printing of the at least one 3D object. The buildmodule container can be configured to reversibly couple to theprocessing chamber and vice versa. The second opening can be configuredto merge with the first opening to facilitate the printing of the 3Dprinting. (i) the internal processing chamber environment that can beseparated by processing chamber shutter and/or (ii) the internalenvironment of the build module that is separated by the build moduleshutter: (a) can have a pressure that is above the pressure of theexternal environment, (b) can be inert, (b) can be not reactive with astarting material of the at least one 3D object, (c) can be differentfrom the external environment, or (d) any combination thereof. Theprocessing chamber can be configured to remain coupled to the buildmodule during the 3D printing. The processing chamber can be configuredto separate from the build module after the 3D printing. The processingchamber shutter can be configured to shut before separation from thebuild module. The processing chamber shutter can be configured to shutbefore exposure of the first opening to the external atmosphere. Theapparatus can further comprise a platform adjacent to which the at leastone 3D object is printed. The build module can be configured toaccommodate the platform. The platform can be configured to verticallytranslate. The platform that is configured to vertically translate usinga translation mechanism can comprise an encoder, vertical guide post,vertical screw, horizontal screw, linear motor, bearing, shaft, orbellow. The platform can be configured to vertically translate using atranslation mechanism comprising an optical encoder, magnetic encoder,gas bearing, wheel bearing, or a scissor jack. The platform can beconfigured to support the at least one 3D object. The apparatus canfurther comprise an energy source configured to generate an energy beamthat transforms a pre-transformed material to a transformed material toprint the at least one 3D object. The processing chamber can beoperatively coupled to the energy source. The energy beam can beconfigured to travel in the processing chamber to print the at least one3D object. The build module shutter can be configured to couple with theprocessing chamber shutter to facilitate merging the first opening withthe second opening. The build module shutter can be configured to couplewith the processing chamber shutter using a mechanism comprising asuction cup or a clipper. The build module shutter can be configured tocouple with the processing chamber shutter using a force comprisingmagnetic, electric, electrostatic, hydraulic, or pneumatic force. Thebuild module shutter may couple to the processing chamber automatically,manually, or both automatically and manually. The build module shuttercan be configured to couple with the processing chamber shutter using aphysical engagement. The physical engagement can comprise one or morelatches links, or hooks. The processing chamber shutter and/or the buildmodule shutter can comprise one or more latches, links, or hooks. Thebuild module shutter can comprise a first portion and a second portion.The first portion can be translatable relative to the second portion.The first portion can be translatable relative to the second portionupon exertion of force. The force can comprise magnetic, electric,electrostatic, hydraulic, or pneumatic force. The force can comprisemanual force. The processing chamber shutter can comprise a pin. Thebuild module shutter can comprise a first portion and a second portion.A pin can be configured to facilitate separation of the first portionfrom the second portion. The pin can be configured to be pushed tofurther separate the first portion from the second portion. Theprocessing chamber shutter can comprise a first seal. The first seal canreduce an atmospheric exchange between the external (e.g., ambient)environment and the internal processing chamber environment. The buildmodule shutter can comprise a second seal. The second seal can beconfigured to reduce an atmospheric exchange between the externalenvironment and the internal environment of the build module. The secondseal can be a gas seal. The build module shutter can comprise a firstportion and a second portion that is translatable relative to the firstportion to facilitate engagement or disengagement of the second sealwith the build module chamber. The build module shutter can beconfigured to contact the first seal upon engagement with the processingchamber. The build module container can be configured to engage with thefirst seal when the first portion and the second portion are close toeach other. The build module container can be configured to disengagewith the first seal when the first portion and the second portion arerelatively farther from each other. The build module container can beconfigured to disengage with the first seal when the first portioncontacts the second portion. The build module container can beconfigured to disengage from the first seal when the first portion andthe second portion are separated by a gap. The gap can be a gaseous gap.The apparatus can further comprise a translation mechanism comprising ashaft. The translation mechanism can be coupled to the processingchamber shutter and/or to the build module shutter. The translationmechanism can be configured to facilitate translation of the processingchamber shutter and/or the build module shutter. The translationmechanism can comprise a cam follower. The shaft can be at least a partof the cam follower. The translation mechanism can comprise one or morerotating devices. The rotating devices can comprise wheels, cylinders,or balls.

In another aspect, an apparatus used in 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises at least one controller that is configured to performthe following operations: operation (a) direct a build module to engagewith a processing chamber, which processing chamber comprises (I) afirst opening and (II) a processing chamber shutter that reversiblycloses (e.g., shutter that can close and open) the first opening, whichbuild module comprises (i) a second opening and (ii) a build moduleshutter that reversibly closes (e.g., shutter that can close and open)the second opening, wherein the at least one controller is operativelycoupled to the build module, build module shutter, processing chamber,and processing chamber shutter; operation (b) direct an energy beamalong a path to transform a pre-transformed material to a transformedmaterial to print the at least one 3D object, wherein the at least onecontroller is operatively coupled to the energy beam; and operation (c)direct the build module shutter to shut the second opening and separatean internal environment of the build module from the processing chamberafter the 3D printing, wherein the build module is configured toaccommodate the at least one 3D object that is printed by the 3Dprinting.

At least one controller can be further configured to perform operation(d) direct merging of the first opening with the second opening beforeoperation (b) and/or after operation (a). An internal environment of theprocessing chamber can comprise a first atmosphere. The internalenvironment of the build module can comprise a second atmosphere. Thefirst atmosphere and the second atmosphere can be detectably the same.The first atmosphere and the second atmosphere can differ. During the 3Dprinting, the pressure in the enclosure can be above ambient pressure.The second atmosphere can be merged with the first atmosphere duringoperation (a) to form a third atmosphere. At least one controller can beprogramed to direct at least one pressurized gas source to maintain thefirst atmosphere, second atmosphere, third atmosphere, at a pressureabove an ambient pressure. At least one controller can be operativelycoupled to the at least one pressurized gas source. The pressurized gassource may comprise a pump or a gas-cylinder. At least one controllercan be programed to direct at least one pressurized gas source tomaintain the first atmosphere, second atmosphere, and/or thirdatmosphere, at a pressure above an ambient pressure. At least onecontroller can be operatively coupled to the at least one pressurizedgas source. The at least one controller can be programed to direct atleast one pressurized gas source (e.g., pressurized gas generator) tomaintain the first atmosphere, second atmosphere, and/or thirdatmosphere, at a pressure above an ambient pressure. The at least onecontroller can be operatively coupled to the at least one pressurizedgas source. Direct can be before, after, and/or during thethree-dimensional printing. The first atmosphere, the second atmosphere,and/or the third atmosphere can be (I) above ambient pressure, (II)inert, (III) different from the ambient atmosphere, (IV) non-reactivewith the pre-transformed material and/or one or more 3D objects, (V)comprises a reactive agent below a threshold, or (VI) any combinationthereof, during the plurality of 3D printing cycles. The firstatmosphere, the second atmosphere, and/or the third atmosphere can benon-reactive to a degree that does not cause at least one defect in thematerial properties and/or structural properties of the one or more 3Dobjects. The first atmosphere, the second atmosphere, and/or the thirdatmosphere can be non-reactive to a detectable degree. The firstatmosphere, the second atmosphere, and/or the third atmosphere can bedifferent from an ambient atmosphere. Direct merging can comprise directtranslating the processing chamber shutter and the build module shutter.Direct translating can be away from the first opening and/or secondopening. Direct translating can comprise direct engaging the processingchamber shutter and/or the build module shutter with a shaft. Directtranslating can comprise direct engaging the processing chamber shutterand/or the build module shutter with a cam follower. Direct merging cancomprise direct coupling of the processing chamber shutter with thebuild module shutter. Direct merging can comprise direct separating afirst portion of the build module shutter from a second portion of thebuild module shutter. Direct separating can comprise direct pushing orrepelling the first portion away from the second portion. Directseparation can comprise direct using operation of a mechanical,magnetic, electronic, electrostatic, hydraulic, or pneumatic forceactuator. Direct separation can comprise manual separation. Directseparation can comprise direct pushing a pin to separate the firstportion from the second portion. The processing chamber shutter cancomprise the pin. The first portion can be a lateral portion the secondportion can be a lateral portion. The first portion can be a horizontalportion. The second portion can be a horizontal portion. The firstportion can be separated from the second portion by a verticalseparation gap. Direct coupling can comprise direct latching the buildmodule shutter with the processing chamber shutter. Direct latching cancomprise direct translating a portion of (1) the build module shutterand/or (2) the processing chamber shutter. Direct translating cancomprise direct rotating, swiveling, or swinging. Direct merging cancomprise direct releasing at least one first seal disposed adjacent tothe first opening of the processing chamber and the processing chambershutter. Direct merging can comprise direct releasing at least onesecond seal disposed adjacent to the second opening of the build moduleand the build module shutter. Direct merging can comprise directseparating the first portion from the second portion to release at leastone second seal that is disposed adjacent to the second opening of thebuild module and the build module shutter. At least two of operations(a) to (d) can be directed by the same controller. At least two ofoperations (a) to (d) can be directed by different controllers. At leastone controller can be programmed to direct at least one of operations(a) to (d). At least one controller can be programed to perform at leastone of operations (a) to (d). At least one controller can include acontrol scheme comprising open loop, or closed loop control. At leastone controller can include a control scheme comprising feed forward orfeedback control. At least one controller can be configured to directbefore, after, and/or during the plurality of 3D printing cycles.

In another aspect, a method used in 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises: (a) engaging a build module with a processing chamber,which processing chamber comprises (I) a first opening and (II) aprocessing chamber shutter that closes the first opening, which buildmodule comprises (i) a second opening and (ii) a build module shutterthat closes the second opening, and (iii) a substrate; (b) directing anenergy beam to transform a pre-transformed material to a transformedmaterial to print the at least one 3D object by directing it along apath; and (c) shutting the second opening of the build module shutterand separating an internal environment of the build module from aninternal environment of the processing chamber after the 3D printing,wherein the build module is configured to accommodate the at least one3D object that is printed by the 3D printing.

The method can further comprise merging the first opening with thesecond opening after operation (a) and/or before operation (b). Themethod can further comprise maintaining the pressure in the processingchamber and/or build module above ambient pressure during the 3Dprinting of the at least one 3D object. Maintaining the pressure maycomprise using a pressurized gas source. The pressurized gas source maycomprise a pump or a gas cylinder. The method can further comprisereversibly shutting the processing chamber after the 3D printing of theat least one 3D object. Shutting can comprise environmentally sealing.The internal environment of the processing chamber can comprise a firstatmosphere. The internal environment of the internal environment of thebuild module can comprise a second atmosphere. The first atmosphereand/or the second atmosphere can be (a) above ambient pressure, (b)inert, (c) different from the ambient atmosphere, and/or (d)non-reactive with the pre-transformed material and/or one or more 3Dobjects during the plurality of 3D printing cycles. The first atmosphereand/or the second atmosphere can be non-reactive to a degree that doesnot cause at least one defect in the material properties and/orstructural properties of the one or more 3D objects. The firstatmosphere and/or the second atmosphere can be non-reactive to adetectable degree. The first atmosphere and the second atmosphere can bedetectably the same. The first atmosphere and the second atmosphere candiffer. The method can further comprise reducing a temperature of the atleast one 3D object after the 3D printing of the at least one 3D object.The method can further comprise regulating of the pressure of the secondatmosphere in during reducing the temperature of the at least one 3Dobject. The method can further comprise transporting the build module toand/or from the processing chamber in a period other than during the 3Dprinting of the at least one 3D object. The method can further comprisedirecting an energy beam to transform a pre-transformed material into atransformed material to print the at least one 3D object. The directingcan be along a path. The path can be related to the at least one 3Dobject. The merging can comprise translating the processing chambershutter and the build module shutter. The translating can be away fromthe first opening and/or second opening. Translating can compriseengaging the build module shutter and/or processing chamber shutter witha shaft. Translating can comprise engaging the build module shutterand/or processing chamber shutter with a cam follower. Merging cancomprise coupling the processing chamber shutter with the build moduleshutter. Merging can comprise separating a first portion of the buildmodule shutter from a second portion of the build module shutter.Separating can comprise pushing or repelling the first portion away fromthe second portion. Separating can comprise using a physical, magnetic,electronic, electrostatic, hydraulic, or pneumatic force actuator.Separation can comprise manual separation. Separating can comprisepushing a pin to separate the first portion from the second portion. Theprocessing chamber shutter can comprise the pin. The first portion canbe a lateral portion. The second portion can be a lateral portion. Thefirst portion can be a horizontal portion. The second portion can be ahorizontal portion. The first portion can be separated from the secondportion by a vertical separation gap. Coupling the processing chambershutter with the build module shutter can comprise latching of the buildmodule shutter to the processing chamber shutter, or vice versa.Latching of the build module shutter to the processing chamber shutter,or vice versa, can comprise translating a portion of (1) the buildmodule shutter and/or (2) the processing chamber shutter. Translatingcan comprise direct rotating, swiveling, and/or swinging. Merging cancomprise releasing at least one first seal disposed adjacent to (1) thefirst opening of the processing chamber and (2) the processing chambershutter. Merging can comprise releasing at least one second sealdisposed (1) adjacent to the second opening of the build module and (2)the build module shutter. Merging can comprise separating the firstportion from the second portion to release at least one second seal thatis disposed adjacent to the second opening of the build module and thebuild module shutter.

In another aspect, a computer software product for 3D printing of atleast one 3D object, comprises a non-transitory computer-readable mediumin which program instructions are stored, which instructions, when readby a computer, cause the computer to perform operations comprising:operation (a) direct a build module to engage with a processing chamber,which processing chamber comprises (I) a first opening and (II) aprocessing chamber shutter that closes the first opening, which buildmodule comprises (i) a second opening and (ii) a build module shutterthat closes the second opening, and (iii) a substrate; operation (c)direct an energy beam to transform a pre-transformed material to atransformed material to print the at least one 3D object by projectingin the processing chamber towards the substrate; and operation (c)direct the build module shutter to shut the second opening and separatean internal environment of the build module from the processing chamberafter the 3D printing, wherein the build module is configured toaccommodate the at least one 3D object that is printed by the 3Dprinting. The computer software product can be further programmed toperform operation (d) direct merging of the first opening with thesecond opening.

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises: an unpacking station configured to facilitate removalof at least a portion of a starting material of the at least one 3Dobject from the at least one 3D object, which unpacking stationcomprises a first opening that is reversibly closable and a secondopening that is reversibly closable; a first build module configured toaccommodate the at least one 3D object, which first build modulecomprises a third opening that is reversibly closable (e.g., can closeand open); and a second build module configured to accommodate the atleast one 3D object, which second build module comprises a fourthopening that is reversibly closable, which unpacking station, firstbuild module, and second build module are configured to reversiblyengage (e.g., can engage and disengage).

The unpacking station and/or first build module may be configured toaccommodate a pressure above an ambient pressure at least during theremoval of the starting material. The second build module can beconfigured to engage with the unpacking station before and/or during theremoval. The first build module and/or the second build module can beconfigured to translate. Translation of first build module and/or thesecond build module can comprise a vertical or horizontal translation.The unpacking station can be configured to facilitate translation of theat least one 3D object from the first build module to the second buildmodule through the unpacking station. Translation of the at least one 3Dobject can comprise a vertical or horizontal translation. The unpackingstation can be configured to facilitate transfer of the at least one 3Dobject from the first build module to the second build module thoroughthe unpacking station without contacting the ambient atmosphere. Theunpacking station first build module and/or the second build module canbe configured to maintain a pressure above an ambient pressure (e.g.,during the removal). The first build module can comprise a firstatmosphere, wherein the second build module can comprise a secondatmosphere. The unpacking station can comprise a third atmosphere.During the removal, the first build module, the second build moduleand/or unpacking station can be configured to facilitate pressuremaintenance of the first atmosphere, second atmosphere, and/or thirdatmosphere to above ambient pressure, respectively. Above ambientpressure can comprise at least half (0.5) a pound per square inch (PSI)above ambient pressure. The unpacking station can be configured toengage with the first build module and/or the second build modulewithout being open to the ambient atmosphere. The unpacking station canbe configured to engage with the first build module and/or the secondbuild module while maintaining a pressure above ambient atmosphere inthe unpacking station (i) during engagement with the first build moduleand/or the second build module, (ii) that is engaged with the firstbuild module and/or the second build module, or (iii) any combinationthereof. The first build module can comprise a first platform that isconfigured to vertically translate. The second build module can comprisea second platform that is configured to vertically translate. Verticallytranslate can comprise using a translation mechanism comprising anencoder, vertical guide post, vertical screw, horizontal screw, linearmotor, bearing, shaft, or bellow. Vertically translate can compriseusing a translation mechanism comprising an optical encoder, magneticencoder, wheel bearing, air bearing, or a scissor jack. The startingmaterial can be a pre-transformed material that is transformed to formthe at least one 3D object during the 3D printing of the at least one 3Dobject. The starting material can be included in a remainder of amaterial bed that did not form the at least one 3D object. The unpackingstation can be configured to facilitate removal of the remainder fromthe at least one 3D object. Reversibly closable can be reversiblysealable. The first opening can be reversibly closable by a first lidthat is reversibly removable. The second opening can be reversiblyclosable by a second lid that can be reversibly removable. The thirdopening can be reversibly closable by a third lid that is reversiblyremovable. The fourth opening can be reversibly closable by a fourth lidthat is reversibly removable. The unpacking station can be configured toengage with the first build module. The unpacking station can beconfigured to engage with the first build module directly or indirectly.The unpacking station can be configured to engage with the first buildmodule through a first load lock. The first opening can be configured tomerge with the third opening. Merging of the first opening with thethird opening can facilitate atmospheric exchange between the unpackingstation and the first build module. Merging of the first opening withthe third opening can facilitate translation of the at least one 3Dobject between the unpacking station and the first build module. Uponengagement of the unpacking station with the first build module, thefirst lid and third lid can translate to facilitate (i) merging theatmospheres of the unpacking station and the first build module, (ii)entrance of the at least one 3D object from the first build module intothe unpacking station (iii) merging of the first opening with the thirdopening, (iv) or any combination thereof. The first lid and the thirdlid can translate while being engaged. The first lid can engage with thethird lid prior to being translated. A first translation direction ofthe first lid can have a horizontal and/or vertical component. A thirdtranslation direction of the third lid can have a horizontal and/orvertical component. The first direction and the third direction can bethe same. The first direction and the third direction can differ. Theapparatus can further comprise a first actuator configured to translatethe first lid, and a third actuator configured to translate the thirdlid. The first actuator can be different from the third actuator. Thefirst actuator and the third actuator can be the same actuator. Thefirst and/or third actuator can be coupled to a first shaft and/or thirdshaft, respectively. The first and/or third actuator can be part of afirst robot and/or third robot, respectively. The first and/or thirdactuator can be part of a first pick-and-place system and/or thirdpick-and-place system, respectively. The first and/or third actuatorpick-and-place system can comprise a first and/or third shaft,respectively. The first and/or third actuator can be controlled manuallyand/or automatically by at least one controller. The first and/or thirdactuator can be controlled before, during, and/or after removal of thestarting material. The unpacking station can be configured to engagewith the second build module. The unpacking station can be configured toengage with the second build module directly or indirectly. Theunpacking station can be configured to engage with the second buildmodule through a second load lock. The second load lock can be the sameor different from the first load lock. The second load lock may besimilar in shape, features, and/or internal volume to the first loadlock. Upon engagement of the unpacking station with the second buildmodule, the second lid and fourth lid can translate to facilitate (i)merging the atmospheres of the unpacking station and the second buildmodule, (ii) entrance of the at least one 3D object from the unpackingstation into the second build module (iii) merging of the second openingwith the fourth opening, (iv) or any combination thereof. The second lidand the fourth lid can translate while being engaged. The second lid canengage with the fourth lid prior to being translated. A secondtranslation direction of the second lid can have a horizontal and/orvertical component. A fourth translation direction of the fourth lid canhave a horizontal and/or vertical component. The second direction andthe fourth direction can be the same. The second direction and thefourth direction can differ. The apparatus can further comprise a secondactuator configured to translate the second lid, and a fourth actuatorconfigured to translate the fourth lid. The second actuator can bedifferent from the fourth actuator. The second actuator and the fourthactuator can be the same actuator. The second and/or fourth actuator canbe coupled to a second shaft and/or fourth shaft, respectively. Thesecond and/or fourth actuator can be part of a second robot and/orfourth robot, respectively. The second and/or fourth actuator can bepart of a second pick-and-place system and/or fourth pick-and-placesystem, respectively. The second and/or fourth actuator pick-and-placesystem can comprise a second and/or fourth shaft, respectively. Thesecond and/or fourth actuator can be controlled manually and/orautomatically by at least one controller. The second and/or fourthactuator can be controlled before, during, and/or after removal of thestarting material. The first build module can comprise an actuator thatfacilitates vertically translatation of (i) a first platform and/or (ii)the at least one 3D object. The first build module can comprise anactuator that facilitates vertically translation of (i) a secondplatform and/or (ii) the at least one 3D object. The unpacking stationcan comprise a vibrator. The first build module can comprise a firstplatform. The platform can be configured to rotate, translate, tilt,and/or vibrate. The first platform can be configured to rotate,translate, tilt, vibrate, or any combination thereof, at least duringthe removal. The first platform can rotate around a vertical and/orhorizontal axis. The first build module can comprise a first removablebase that is configured to support the at least one 3D object. The firstbuild module can comprise a platform. The first removable base can bedisposed adjacent to the platform. The first base can be configured totranslate away from the first platform during and/or after the removal.The second build module can be configured to accommodate the first baseor a second base that is configured to accommodate the at least one 3Dobject after the removal. The second base can be configured to translateto the second build module during and/or after the removal. The secondbuild module can comprise a second platform that is configured tovertically translate. The second base can be configured to translate toa second platform disposed in the second build module, during and/orafter the removal. The apparatus can further comprise an actuator thatis configured to translate the second base from the unpacking station tothe second build module. The first base can be configured to translateto the second build module during and/or after the removal. The firstbase can be configured to translate to the second platform during and/orafter the removal. The apparatus can further comprise an actuator thatis configured to translate the first base from the unpacking station tothe second build module. The apparatus can further comprise an actuatorthat is configured to translate the first base from the first buildmodule to the unpacking station. The first atmosphere, the secondatmosphere, the third atmosphere, or any combination thereof, (a) can beabove ambient pressure, (b) can be inert, (c) different from the ambientatmosphere, (d) can be non-reactive with the pre-transformed materialand/or one or more 3D objects during the plurality of 3D printingcycles, (e) may comprise a reactive agent below a threshold, or (f) canbe any combination thereof. The first atmosphere, the second atmosphere,the third atmosphere can be non-reactive to a degree that does not causeat least one defect in the material properties and/or structuralproperties of the one or more 3D objects. The first atmosphere, thesecond atmosphere, the third atmosphere can be non-reactive to adetectable degree. At least two of the first atmosphere, the secondatmosphere, and the third atmosphere, fourth can be detectibly the same.At least two of the first atmosphere, the second atmosphere, and thethird atmosphere can differ. The unpacking station can be configured tofacilitate contacting and/or manipulating the at least one 3D objectfrom two or more spatial directions. The two or more spatial directionscan comprise north, south, east, west, top, and bottom directions.Bottom can be in a direction towards a second platform adjacent to whichthe one or more 3D objects are disposed. The two or more directions cancorrespond to Cartesian directions. The Cartesian directions cancomprise positive or negative Cartesian directions. The two or moredirection can correspond to cardinal points. Contacting the at least one3D object from two or more spatial directions can comprise using a liveor inanimate operator. The inanimate operator can comprise a shaft or anactuator. The inanimate operator can comprise a robot. The live operatorcan be a human. Contacting the at least one 3D object from two or morespatial directions can be directly contacting. Contacting the at leastone 3D object from two or more spatial directions can be indirectlycontacting.

In another aspect, a method for 3D printing of at least one 3D objectcomprises: (a) reversibly engaging a first build module with anunpacking station, which first build module comprises the at least one3D object and a starting material of the at least one 3D object; (b)removing at least a portion of a starting material of the at least one3D object from the at least one 3D object in the unpacking station; (c)reversibly engaging a second build module with the unpacking station;and (d) evacuating the at least one 3D object from the unpacking stationby enclosing it in the second build module.

The method can further comprise translating the at least one 3D objectfrom the first build module to the unpacking station after operation (a)and/or before operation (b). The method can further comprise translatingthe at least one 3D object from the unpacking station to the secondbuild module after operation (b) and/or before operation (d). Operation(c) can occur before operation (d). Operation (c) can occur before orsimultaneously with operation (b) and/or operation (a). The method canfurther comprise opening a reversibly closable first opening of theunpacking station, and opening a reversibly closable third opening ofthe build module after operation (a) and/or before operation (b). Themethod can further comprise opening a reversibly closable second openingof the unpacking station, and opening a reversibly closable fourthopening of the build module after operation (c) and/or before operation(d). The method can further comprise closing a reversibly closablesecond opening of the unpacking station, and closing a reversiblyclosable fourth opening of the build module after operation (c) and/orbefore operation (d), wherein the closing is after the opening. Engagingthe second build module with the unpacking station can be before and/orduring operation (b). The method can further comprise translating thefirst build module and/or the second build module to or from theunpacking station. Translating can comprise a vertical or horizontaltranslation. The method can further comprise translating the at leastone 3D object in the unpacking station. Translation of the at least one3D object can comprise a vertical or horizontal translation. Theunpacking station can be configured to facilitate transfer of the atleast one 3D object from the first build module to the second buildmodule thorough the unpacking station without contacting the ambientatmosphere. The method can further comprise, during the removal,maintaining a pressure above an ambient pressure in the unpackingstation, first build module, second build module, or any combinationthereof. The first build module can comprise a first atmosphere. Thesecond build module can comprise a second atmosphere. The unpackingstation can comprise a third atmosphere. The method can furthercomprise, during the removal, maintaining a pressure above an ambientpressure in the first atmosphere, second atmosphere, third atmosphere,or any combination thereof. Above ambient pressure can comprise at leasthalf (0.5) a pound per square inch (PSI) above ambient pressure.Engaging the unpacking station with the first build module and/or thesecond build module can be without exposing the first atmosphere, secondatmosphere, and/or third atmosphere to the ambient atmosphere. Engagingthe unpacking station with the first build module and/or the secondbuild module can further comprise maintaining a pressure above ambientatmosphere in the unpacking station (i) during engagement with the firstbuild module and/or the second build module, (ii) that is engaged withthe first build module and/or the second build module, or (iii) anycombination thereof. The starting material can be a pre-transformedmaterial that is transformed to form the at least one 3D object duringthe 3D printing of the at least one 3D object. The starting material canbe included in a remainder of a material bed that did not form the atleast one 3D object. The unpacking station can be configured tofacilitate removal of the remainder from the at least one 3D object.Reversibly closable can be reversibly sealable. The first opening can bereversibly closable (e.g., closed and opened) by a first lid that isreversibly removable (e.g., removed and engaged). The second opening canbe reversibly closable by a second lid that is reversibly removable. Thethird opening can be reversibly closable by a third lid that isreversibly removable. The fourth opening can be reversibly closable by afourth lid that is reversibly removable. Engaging the first build modulewith the unpacking station can be directly or indirectly. Engaging thefirst build module with the unpacking station can be through a firstload lock. The method can further comprise merging the first openingwith the third opening. Merging the first opening with the third openingcan comprise facilitating atmospheric exchange between the unpackingstation and the first build module. Merging the first opening with thethird opening can comprise facilitating translation of the at least one3D object between the unpacking station and the first build module.Engaging the unpacking station with the first build module can furthercomprise translating the first lid and third lid to facilitate (i)merging the atmospheres of the unpacking station and the first buildmodule, (ii) maneuvering the at least one 3D object from the first buildmodule into the unpacking station (iii) merging the first opening withthe third opening, (iv) or any combination thereof. Engaging the firstlid and the third lid can comprise, or can be followed by, translatingthe first lid and the third lid while being engaged. Engaging the firstlid with the third lid can be prior to translating. Engaging the firstbuild module with the unpacking station can comprise translating thefirst lid and the second lid. A first translation direction of the firstlid can have a horizontal and/or vertical component. A third translationdirection of the third lid can have a horizontal and/or verticalcomponent. The method can further comprise translating the first lidwith a first actuator, and translating the third lid with a thirdactuator. The method can further comprise controlling the first actuatorand/or third actuator manually, automatically, or both manually andautomatically, by at least one controller. Controlling the firstactuator, the third actuator, or both the first actuator and the thirdactuator, can be before, during, and/or after removal of the startingmaterial. Engaging the unpacking station with the second build modulecan be directly or indirectly. Engaging the unpacking station with thesecond build module can be indirectly through a second load lock. Uponengaging of unpacking station with the second build module, the methodcan further comprise translating the second lid and fourth lid tofacilitate (i) merging the atmospheres of the unpacking station and thesecond build module, (ii) entering of the at least one 3D object fromthe unpacking station into the second build module (iii) merging of thesecond opening with the fourth opening, (iv) or any combination thereof.Translating the second lid and the fourth lid can be while engaging thesecond lid and the fourth lid. Translating the second lid and the fourthlid can be before engaging the second lid and the fourth lid. A secondtranslation direction of the second lid can have a horizontal and/orvertical component. A fourth translation direction of the fourth lid canhave a horizontal and/or vertical component. The second direction andthe fourth direction can be the same. The second direction and thefourth direction can differ. The method can further comprise using atleast one controller to control translation of the second lid and/or thefourth lid manually, automatically, or any combination thereof. Themethod can further comprise vertically translating (i) a first platformand/or (ii) the at least one 3D object. The method can further comprisevertically translating (i) a second platform and/or (ii) the at leastone 3D object. The method can further comprise manipulating the firstplatform, the second platform, or the first platform and the secondplatform to: rotate, translate, tilt, vibrate, or any combinationthereof. Manipulating the first platform, the second platform, or thefirst platform and the second platform, can be during operation (b)Manipulating the first platform, the second platform, or the firstplatform and the second platform to rotate can comprise rotating arounda vertical and/or horizontal axis. The first build module can comprise afirst removable base that is configured to support the at least one 3Dobject. The method can further comprise translating the first base awayfrom the first platform during and/or after the removal. The secondbuild module can be configured to accommodate the first base or a secondbase that is configured to accommodate the at least one 3D object afterevacuating in operation (d). The method can further comprise translatingthe second base to the second build module during and/or after theremoval. The method can further comprise vertically translating thesecond platform in the second build module. The method can furthercomprise translating the second base to the second platform duringand/or after the removal. The method can further comprise translatingthe first base to the second build module during and/or after theremoval. The method can further comprise vertically translating a secondplatform in the second build module. The method can further comprisetranslating the first base configured to translate to a second platformdisposed in the second build module, during and/or after the removal.The first atmosphere, the second atmosphere, the third atmosphere, orany combination thereof, (a) can be above ambient pressure, (b) can beinert, (c) can be different from the ambient atmosphere, (d) can benon-reactive with the pre-transformed material and/or one or more 3Dobjects during the plurality of 3D printing cycles, (e) can comprise areactive agent below a threshold (e.g., as disclosed herein), or (f) canbe any combination thereof. The first atmosphere, the second atmosphere,the third atmosphere, or any combination thereof can be non-reactive toa degree that does not cause at least one defect in the materialproperties and/or structural properties of the one or more 3D objects.The first atmosphere, the second atmosphere, the third atmosphere, orany combination thereof can be non-reactive to a detectable degree. Atleast two of the first atmosphere, the second atmosphere, and the thirdatmosphere can be detectibly the same. At least two of the firstatmosphere, the second atmosphere, and the third atmosphere can differ.The method can further comprise contacting, manipulating, or bothcontacting and manipulating the at least one 3D object in the unpackingstation from two or more spatial directions. The two or more spatialdirections can comprise north, south, east, west, top, and bottomdirections. The bottom direction can be in a direction towards a secondplatform adjacent to which the at least one 3D objects are disposed. Thetwo or more directions can correspond to Cartesian directions. TheCartesian directions can comprise positive or negative Cartesiandirections. The two or more direction can correspond to cardinal points.Contacting the at least one 3D object in the unpacking station from twoor more spatial directions can comprise using a live or inanimateoperator. The inanimate operator can comprise a shaft or an actuator.The inanimate operator can comprise a robot. The live operator can be ahuman. Contacting the at least one 3D object in the unpacking stationfrom two or more spatial directions can be directly contacting.Contacting the at least one 3D object in the unpacking station from twoor more spatial directions can be indirectly contacting.

In another aspect, an apparatus for printing at least one 3D object,comprises: a processing chamber that defines a first volume; a buildmodule that defines a second volume, wherein the build module comprisesa platform configured to support the at least one 3D object; a load-lockthat is (I) configured to facilitate coupling of the processing chamberto the build module or (II) formed on coupling the processing chamberand the build module, wherein the load-lock defines a third volume thatis configured to connect the first volume with the second volume; and anenergy source that is configured to generate an energy beam thatirradiates to facilitate printing the at least one 3D object.

At least one of the first volume, second volume, and third volumes canbe configured to support a pressure above ambient pressure at leastduring the printing of the at least one three-dimensional object. Thebuild module can comprise a first opening and a first shutter thatreversibly shuts the first opening. The first shutter can be configuredto maintain an atmosphere within the second volume that (i) isnon-reactive with a starting material of the at least onethree-dimensional object, (ii) is above ambient pressure, (iii)comprises a reactive agent below a threshold value (e.g., as describedherein), or (iv) any combination thereof, at a time comprising: (a)after the printing of the at least one three-dimensional object, or (b)before disengagement of the build module from the processing chamber.The first shutter can be configured to maintain an atmosphere within thesecond volume (1) after the printing of the at least onethree-dimensional object, (2) after disengagement of the build modulefrom the processing chamber, or (3) after forming the at least onethree-dimensional object and after disengagement of the build modulefrom the processing chamber, which second volume is non-reactive with astarting material of the at least one 3D object. Maintain an atmosphereis for a period of at least 1 days, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days or 7 days. Atleast one of the first, second, and third volumes can be configured tosupport (i) a non-reactive (e.g., inert) atmosphere, and (ii) a pressureabove ambient pressure at least during the printing of the at least one3D object. Non-reactive can be with a starting material of the at leastone 3D object. Non-reactive can be with the remainder of the materialbed that did not transform to form the at least one 3D object. Anon-reactive atmosphere (as disclosed herein) may comprise a reactiveagent below a threshold (e.g., as disclosed herein). At least one of theprocessing chamber, the build module, and the load lock can beconfigured to support (i) a non-reactive (e.g., inert) atmosphere, and(ii) a pressure above ambient pressure at least during the printing ofthe at least one 3D object. The platform can be configured to verticallytranslate. The platform can be configured to support a material bed inwhich the at least one 3D object is printed. The build module can beconfigured to accommodate the material bed and the at least one 3Dobject (e.g., after the printing). The build module can comprise a firstopening and a first shutter that reversibly shuts the first opening. Thefirst shutter can be configured to maintain an atmosphere within thesecond volume that is (i) non-reactive (e.g., inert), and (ii) aboveambient pressure, after the printing of the at least one 3D object,after disengagement of the build module from the processing chamber, orafter forming the at least one 3D object and after disengagement of thebuild module from the processing chamber. Maintain an atmosphere is fora period as disclosed herein (e.g., at least 3 days). The first openingcan be configured to facilitate transfer of the at least one 3D objectand the material bed through the first opening. The processing chambercan comprise a second opening that is reversibly closable (e.g., closeand open) by a second shutter. The second opening can be configured inone side of the load lock. The first opening can engage with the loadlock at a second side that opposes the first side. The second openingcan be configured to facilitate (i) transfer of the at least one 3Dobject through the second opening, (ii) transfer of the material bedthrough the second opening, (iii) printing the at least one 3D object bythe energy beam while irradiating through the second opening, or (iv)any combination thereof. At least two of the processing chamber, buildmodule, and load lock can be configured to maintain a similaratmosphere. At least two of the processing chamber, build module, andload lock can be configured to allow atmospheres therein to equilibratewith each other. The apparatus may further comprise at least one forcesource configured to automatically actuate (e.g., close and/or open) theshutters. The at least one force source can be configured to generate aforce comprising mechanical, magnetic, pneumatic, hydraulic,electrostatic, or electric force. Any one of the shutters may be closed(or opened) manually, at least in part. The first shutter may beoperatively coupled to a first force source. The second shutter may beoperatively coupled to a second force source. The first force source andthe second force source may be the same force source. The first forcesource and the second force source may be different. The first forcesource and the second force source may generate the same force type(e.g., magnetic). The first force source and the second force source maygenerate different force types. For example, the first force source maygenerate a pneumatic force and the second force source may generate anelectric force (e.g., electricity).

In another aspect, an apparatus for 3D printing, comprises at least onecontroller that is programmed to perform the following operations:operation (a) direct engaging a build module with a processing chamberthrough a load lock, wherein the processing chamber comprises a firstatmosphere, wherein the build module comprises a platform and a secondatmosphere, wherein the load lock comprises a third atmosphere; andoperation (b) direct printing the at least one 3D object according to a3D printing method, which at least one 3D object is disposed adjacent tothe platform and in the build module, which three-dimensional printingis conducted at a positive pressure relative to an ambient pressure.

The at least one controller can be configured to control the secondatmosphere (i) to be non-reactive with a starting material of the atleast one three-dimensional object, (ii) to be above ambient pressure,(iii) to comprise a reactive agent below a threshold value, or (iv) anycombination thereof, at a time comprising: (A) after the printing of theat least one three-dimensional object, or (B) before disengagement ofthe build module from the processing chamber. The threshold value of thereactive agent is disclosed herein (e.g., oxygen level in the buildmodule below 500 ppm, water ingress rate to the build module below 10micrograms per day). The build module can comprise a first controller ofthe at least one controller, and the processing chamber comprises asecond controller of the at least one controller. The second controllercan be separate from the first controller. The first controller may notbe in active communication with the second controller. The secondcontroller may not be in active communication with the first controller.The first controller may be in passive communication with the secondcontroller. The second controller may be in passive communication withthe first controller. Passive communication may comprise passivelyreceiving signals. Active communication may comprise actively generatingsignals. The first controller can control a disengagement of the buildmodule from the processing chamber. The second controller can controlthe printing of the at least one 3D object. The ambient environment cancomprise a reactive agent that reacts with a starting material of the 3Dprinting. The at least one controller can be configured to control apressure, a temperature, an amount of reactive agent, or any combinationthereof in at least one of the first atmosphere, the second atmosphere,and the third atmosphere. The control can be before, during and/or afterthe printing. At least two of the first atmosphere, the secondatmosphere, and the third atmosphere can be controlled by the samecontroller. At least two of the first atmosphere, the second atmosphere,and the third atmosphere can be controlled by different controllers. Atleast one of the first atmosphere, second atmosphere, and thirdatmosphere, (i) can be a non-reactive (e.g., inert) atmosphere, and (ii)can have a pressure above ambient pressure at least during the printingof the at least one 3D object. Non-reactive is described herein. Thebuild module can comprise a first opening and a first shutter thatreversibly shuts the first opening. The at least one controller can beconfigured to direct closure of the first shutter after the printing ofthe at least one 3D object, before disengagement of the build modulefrom the processing chamber, or after the printing of the at least one3D object and before disengagement of the build module from theprocessing chamber. At least one controller can be configured to controlthe second atmosphere to be above ambient pressure, after the printingof the at least one 3D object, before disengagement of the build modulefrom the processing chamber, or after the printing of the at least one3D object and before disengagement of the build module from theprocessing chamber. At least one controller can be configured to controlthe second atmosphere (i) to be non-reactive (e.g., inert), and (ii) tobe above ambient pressure, after the printing of the at least one 3Dobject, before disengagement of the build module from the processingchamber, or after the printing of the at least one 3D object and beforedisengagement of the build module from the processing chamber. Theprocessing chamber can comprise a second opening and a second shutterthat reversibly shuts the second opening. At least one controller can beconfigured to direct closure of the second shutter after the printing ofthe at least one 3D object, before disengagement of the build modulefrom the processing chamber, or after the printing of the at least one3D object and before disengagement of the build module from theprocessing chamber. Non-reactive can be with a starting material of theat least one 3D object. Non-reactive can be with the remainder of thematerial bed that did not transform to form the at least one 3D object.A non-reactive atmosphere (as disclosed herein) may comprise a reactiveagent below a threshold (e.g., as disclosed herein). The apparatus mayfurther comprise at least one valve, sensor, or pressurized gas source.The at least one valve, sensor, or pressurized gas source may be coupledto the build module, processing chamber, and/or load lock.

In another aspect, a system for forming a at least one 3D object,comprises: a processing chamber comprising a first atmosphere; a buildmodule that is reversibly connected to the processing chamber, whereinthe build module comprises a second atmosphere; a load lock (e.g.,comprising a partition that defines an internal load lock volume)comprising a third atmosphere, which load lock (I) is operativelycoupled (e.g., connected) to the processing chamber or (II) is formed byengagement between the processing chamber and the build module; and atleast one controller that is operatively coupled to the build module,the load lock, and the processing chamber, which at least one controlleris programmed to direct performance of the following operations:operation (i) engage a build module with the processing chamber throughthe load lock, operation (ii) print the at least one 3D object at apressure above ambient pressure, and operation (iii) disengage the buildmodule comprising the at least one 3D object, from the processingchamber.

Reversibly connected comprises the ability to connect and disconnect.The at least one controller may control a disengagement of the buildmodule from the processing chamber (e.g., after the 3D printing). The atleast one controller can be configured to control the second atmosphere(1) to be non-reactive with a starting material of the at least onethree-dimensional object, (2) to be above ambient pressure, (3) tocomprise a reactive agent below a threshold value, or (4) anycombination thereof, at a time comprising: (a) after the printing of theat least one three-dimensional object, or (b) before disengagement ofthe build module from the processing chamber. The build module cancomprise a first controller and the processing chamber can comprise asecond controller that is separate from the first controller. The firstcontroller can control a disengagement of the build module from theprocessing chamber. The first controller can be active or passivecommunication with the second controller (e.g., as disclosed herein).The second controller can be in active or passive communication with thefirst controller (e.g., as disclosed herein). The first controller andsecond controller can be separate controllers. The second controller cancontrol the printing of the at least one 3D object. The ambientenvironment can comprise a reactive agent that reacts with a startingmaterial of the 3D printing. At least one controller can control apressure, a temperature, an amount of reactive agent, or any combinationthereof, in: the first atmosphere, the second atmosphere, the thirdatmosphere, or any combination thereof (e.g., before, during and/orafter the 3D printing). The control can be before, during and/or afterthe printing. At least two of the first atmosphere, the secondatmosphere, and the third atmosphere can be controlled by the samecontroller. At least two of the first atmosphere, the second atmosphere,and the third atmosphere can be controlled by different controllers. Atleast one of the first atmosphere, second atmosphere, and thirdatmosphere, can have a pressure above ambient pressure at least duringthe printing of the at least one 3D object. At least one of the firstatmosphere, second atmosphere, and third atmosphere, (a) can be anon-reactive (e.g., an inert) atmosphere, and (b) can have a pressureabove ambient pressure at least during the printing of the at least one3D object. The build module can comprise a first opening and a firstshutter that reversibly shuts the first opening. The at least onecontroller can be configured to direct closure of the first shutterafter the printing of the at least one 3D object, before disengagementof the build module from the processing chamber, or after the printingof the at least one 3D object and before disengagement of the buildmodule from the processing chamber. At least one controller can beconfigured to control the second atmosphere to be above ambientpressure, after the printing of the at least one 3D object, beforedisengagement of the build module from the processing chamber, or afterthe printing of the at least one 3D object and before disengagement ofthe build module from the processing chamber. At least one controllercan be configured to control the second atmosphere (I) to benon-reactive (e.g., inert), and (II) to be above ambient pressure, afterthe printing of the at least one 3D object, before disengagement of thebuild module from the processing chamber, or after the printing of theat least one 3D object and before disengagement of the build module fromthe processing chamber. The processing chamber can comprise a secondopening and a second shutter that reversibly shuts the second opening.The at least one controller can be configured to direct closure of thesecond shutter after the printing of the at least one 3D object, beforedisengagement of the build module from the processing chamber, or afterthe printing of the at least one 3D object and before disengagement ofthe build module from the processing chamber. At least two of operation(i), operation (ii), and operation (iii) can be directed by the samecontroller. At least one controller can be a multiplicity of controllersand wherein at least two of operation (i), operation (ii), and operation(iii) are directed by different controllers. The control may include acontrol scheme comprising feedback or feed forward control. The controlmay include a control scheme comprising open loop or closed loopcontrol. The control may comprise controlling at least one valve,sensor, or pressurized gas source. The valve, sensor, or pressurized gassource may be coupled to the build module, processing chamber, and/orload lock.

In another aspect, a computer software product for 3D printing of atleast one 3D object, comprises a non-transitory computer-readable mediumin which program instructions are stored, which instructions, when readby a computer, cause the computer to perform operations comprising:operation (a) direct engaging a build module to a processing chamberthrough a load lock, wherein the processing chamber comprises a firstatmosphere, the build module comprises a second atmosphere, and the loadlock comprises a third atmosphere; operation (b) direct printing of theat least one 3D object that is disposed adjacent to the platform,wherein the three-dimensional printing is at a pressure above ambientpressure; and operation (c) direct disengaging the build module from theprocessing chamber, which build module comprises the at least one 3Dobject.

The operations may further comprise direct controlling the secondatmosphere (i) to be non-reactive with a starting material of the atleast one three-dimensional object, (ii) to be above ambient pressure,(iii) to comprise a reactive agent below a threshold value, or (iv) anycombination thereof, at a time comprising: (a) after the printing of theat least one three-dimensional object, or (b) before disengagement ofthe build module from the processing chamber. Disengaging can comprisedisengaging from the load lock. The build module can comprise a firstopening and a first shutter that reversibly shuts the first opening. Theoperation may comprise direct closure of the first shutter after theprinting of the at least one 3D object, before disengagement of thebuild module from the processing chamber, or after the printing of theat least one 3D object and before disengagement of the build module fromthe processing chamber. The operation may comprise controlling thesecond atmosphere (e.g., using feedback loop control) to be aboveambient pressure (e.g., by at least 0.3 PSI), after the printing of theat least one 3D object, before disengagement of the build module fromthe processing chamber, or after the printing of the at least one 3Dobject and before disengagement of the build module from the processingchamber. The operation may comprise control the second atmosphere (e.g.,using feedback loop control) (i) to be non-reactive (e.g., inert), and(ii) to be above ambient pressure, after the printing of the at leastone 3D object, before disengagement of the build module from theprocessing chamber, or after the printing of the at least one 3D objectand before disengagement of the build module from the processingchamber. The processing chamber can comprise a second opening and asecond shutter that reversibly shuts the second opening. The operationsmay comprise direct closure of the second shutter after the printing ofthe at least one 3D object, before disengagement of the build modulefrom the processing chamber, or after the printing of the at least one3D object and before disengagement of the build module from theprocessing chamber.

In another aspect, a method for 3D printing, comprises: (a) engaging abuild module with a processing chamber through a load lock, wherein theprocessing chamber comprises a first atmosphere, the build modulecomprises a second atmosphere, and the load lock comprises a thirdatmosphere, wherein the build module comprises a platform; and operation(b) printing the at least one 3D object according to a 3D printingmethod, wherein the printing is at a pressure above ambient pressure,which at least one 3D object is printed adjacent to the platform and inthe build module.

The method can further comprise controlling the second atmosphere (i) tobe non-reactive with a starting material of the at least onethree-dimensional object, (ii) to be above ambient pressure, (iii) tocomprise a reactive agent below a threshold value, or (iv) anycombination thereof, at a time comprising: (A) after the printing of theat least one three-dimensional object, or (B) before disengagement ofthe build module from the processing chamber. The method can furthercomprise vertically translating the platform during the printing. Anambient environment can comprise a reactive agent that reacts with astarting material (e.g., pre-transformed material) of the 3D printing.The method can further comprise controlling a pressure, a temperature,an amount of reactive agent, or any combination thereof, in at least oneof: the first atmosphere, the second atmosphere, and the thirdatmosphere. Controlling can be before, during and/or after the printing.Two of the first atmosphere, the second atmosphere, and the thirdatmosphere can be controlled by the same controller. Each of thecontrollers can be in active or passive communication with the other(e.g., as disclosed herein). Two of the first atmosphere, the secondatmosphere, and the third atmosphere can be controlled by differentcontrollers. At least one of the first atmosphere, second atmosphere,and third atmosphere, (i) can be a non-reactive (e.g., inert)atmosphere, (ii) can have a pressure above ambient pressure at leastduring the printing of the at least one 3D object, (iii) can comprise areactive agent below a threshold value, or (iv) any combination thereof.The build module can comprise a first opening and a first shutter thatreversibly shuts the first opening. The method can further compriseclosing the first shutter after the printing of the at least one 3Dobject, before disengagement of the build module from the processingchamber, or after the printing of the at least one 3D object and beforedisengagement of the build module from the processing chamber. Themethod can further comprise controlling the second atmosphere (i) to benon-reactive (e.g., as disclosed herein), (ii) to be above ambientpressure, (iii) to be non-reactive and above ambient pressure, (iv) tocomprise a reactive agent below a threshold value, or (v) anycombination thereof; after the printing of the at least one 3D object,before disengagement of the build module from the processing chamber, orafter the printing of the at least one 3D object and beforedisengagement of the build module from the processing chamber. Theprocessing chamber can comprise a second opening and a second shutterthat reversibly shuts the second opening. The method can furthercomprise closing the second shutter after the printing of the at leastone 3D object, before disengagement of the build module from theprocessing chamber, or after the printing of the at least one 3D objectand before disengagement of the build module from the processingchamber.

In another aspect, a build module for enclosing at least one 3D object,the build module comprises: a partition that defines an internal volume,the internal volume configured to store the at least one 3D object in aninternal atmosphere; a platform configured to support the at least one3D object, which platform is controllably translatable; an openingwithin the partition, the opening having a shape and size suitable forpassing the at least one 3D object therethrough; and a shutterconfigured to close the opening and form a separation between theinternal atmosphere and an ambient atmosphere, wherein, when the shutteris closed, the build module is configured to (i) maintain the internalatmosphere at a positive pressure for at least 24 hours, (ii) maintainan oxygen concentration of at most 300 ppm within the internalatmosphere for at least 24 hours, (iii) prevent no more than 1000micrograms of water per day from ingressing (e.g., entering) to theinternal atmosphere, or (iv) any combination thereof.

The platform can be configured to facilitate 3D printing. The internalvolume can be further configured to store a starting material for the atleast one 3D object. The starting material can comprise a particulatematerial. The particulate material can be selected from at least onemember of the group consisting of an elemental metal, a metal alloy, aceramic, an allotrope of elemental carbon, a polymer, and a resin. Thebuild module can further comprise a lifting mechanism that is configuredto move the at least one 3D object within the internal volume. Thelifting mechanism can be configured to move the at least one 3D objectin accordance with a vertical axis. The lifting mechanism can comprisean actuator configured to facilitate movement of the at least one 3Dobject. The lifting mechanism can comprise a drive mechanism or a guidemechanism. The drive mechanism can comprise a lead screw or a scissorjack. The guide mechanism can comprise a rail or a linear bearing. Theplatform can be coupled with the lifting mechanism. The platform cancomprise a substrate configured to support the at least one 3D object.The platform can comprise a base that is detachably coupled with thesubstrate. The at least one three-dimensional object can be formed usingthree-dimensional printing, wherein the internal atmosphere isnon-reactive with the pre-transformed material at least during thethree-dimensional printing. The internal volume can comprise thepre-transformed material and the at least one three-dimensional object.The build module can further comprise at least one oxygen sensorconfigured to detect a concentration of the oxygen within the internalatmosphere. The stored pre-transformed material may not deteriorate to adetectable degree during the storage. The build module can be configuredto store the pre-transformed material such that the storedpre-transformed material can be recycled and used in printing asubsequent three-dimensional object. The stored pre-transformed materialcan be used without causing defects in material properties or physicalproperties of a subsequently printed 3D object. The build module can beconfigured to be stored at an ambient temperature. Separation cancomprise a gas-tight seal. The build module can further comprise atleast one moisture sensor configured to detect liquid water or vaporwater concentration within the internal atmosphere. The build module canfurther comprise an opening port that is configured to allow gas to passto and/or from the internal volume. The build module can be configuredto maintain an atmosphere for a period of at least three days. The buildmodule can further comprise at least one sensor configured to detectqualities of the internal atmosphere within the internal volume. Thequalities can comprise pressure, temperature, types or amounts ofreactive agent, or any combination thereof. The build module can furthercomprise at least one controller configured to control qualities of theinternal atmosphere within the internal volume. The qualities cancomprise pressure, temperature, types or reactive agents, amounts ofreactive agent, or any combination thereof. The build module can furthercomprise a coupling mechanism that is configured to operatively couplethe build module to a processing chamber. The at least onethree-dimensional objects formed by three-dimensional printing in anenclosure can comprise the build module and the processing chamber. Whenthe shutter is closed, the build module can be configured to maintain anoxygen concentration of at most 150 ppm within the internal atmosphere.

In another aspect, a method of storing a pre-transformed material withina build module, the method comprises: coupling the build module to aprocessing chamber to form an enclosure; printing the at least onethree-dimensional object using three-dimensional printing in theenclosure; translating the at least one three-dimensional object into aninternal volume of the build module, wherein the internal volume isdefined by a wall of the build module; and closing an opening of thebuild module using a shutter to form a separation between an internalatmosphere within the internal volume and an ambient atmosphere wherein,when the shutter is closed, the build module (i) is maintaining theinternal atmosphere at a positive pressure for at one day (e.g., 24hours), (ii) is maintaining an oxygen concentration of no more than 300ppm within the internal atmosphere for at least one day, (iii) preventsno more than 1000 micrograms of water per day from ingressing within theinternal atmosphere, or (iv) any suitable combination of (i), (ii), and(iii).

Closing the build module can comprise enclosing (I) a remainder of amaterial bed used for the three-dimensional printing, and (II) the atleast one three-dimensional object, within the internal volume. When theshutter is closed, the build module (i) can maintain the internalatmosphere at a positive pressure for at least three days, (ii) canmaintain an oxygen concentration of no more than 300 ppm within theinternal atmosphere for at least three days, or (iii) can maintain theinternal atmosphere at a positive pressure for at least three days andmaintains an oxygen concentration of no more than 300 ppm within theinternal atmosphere for at least three days. The material bed cancomprise a particulate material. The particulate material can beselected from at least one member of the group consisting of anelemental metal, a metal alloy, a ceramic, an allotrope of elementalcarbon, a polymer, and a resin. Coupling the build module to theprocessing chamber can comprise using a coupling mechanism. Coupling thebuild module to the processing chamber can be through a load lock.Printing the at least one three-dimensional object can comprise liftingthe at least one three-dimensional object using a lifting mechanism inthe build module. The build module can be reversibly attachable to theprocessing chamber. The method can further comprise printing asubsequent at least one three-dimensional object using at least aportion of the remainder. Closing the opening can comprise sealing theopening. The sealing can comprise forming a gas-tight seal. Translatingthe at least one three-dimensional object and the remainder of thepowder bed in the build module can comprise moving the at least onethree-dimensional object and the remainder within the internal volumeusing a lifting mechanism. Moving the at least one three-dimensionalobject and the remainder can comprise moving in accordance with avertical axis. The method can further comprise controlling at least onecharacteristic of the internal volume of the build module by couplingthe build module to a pressurized gas source. At least onecharacteristic can comprise pressure, temperature, types of a reactiveagent, amount of the reactive agent, or rate of ingress of the reactiveagent into the build module. The reactive agent can comprise water oroxygen. The method can further comprise controlling at least onecharacteristic of the internal atmosphere within the internal volume. Atleast one characteristic can comprise pressure, temperature, types ofthe reactive agent, amounts of the reactive agent, or rate of ingress ofthe reactive agent into the build module. The coupling can be before theprinting. The method can further comprise, after the build module isclosed, transiting the build module. The transiting can comprise using amotorized vehicle, manually transiting, transiting using a conveyor,transiting using a robot, or any combination thereof. The internalvolume can be maintained at the positive pressure during the printing,the transiting, the closing, or any combination thereof. The couplingcan be manually and/or automatically controlled. Closing the opening ofthe build module can operatively decouple the build module from theprocessing chamber. The positive pressure can be provided by apressurized gas source operatively coupled to the build module. Thepressurized gas source can comprise a pump or a compressed gas cylinder.The positive pressure can be controlled by at least one gas-valvebetween the pressurized gas source and the internal volume of the buildmodule. The method can further comprise, after the build module can beclosed, transiting the build module. The build module can be detachedfrom the pressurized gas source during the transiting. The method canfurther comprise, after the build module can be closed, transiting thebuild module. The build module can be operatively coupled to thepressurized gas source during the transiting.

In another aspect, a system used in 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises any combination of the apparatuses disclosed herein.

In another aspect, a system used in 3D printing of at least one 3Dobject comprises any combination of the apparatuses and the computersoftware disclosed herein.

In another aspect, a computer software product for 3D printing of atleast one 3D object, comprising a non-transitory computer-readablemedium in which program instructions are stored, which instructions,when read by a computer, cause the computer to perform any of themethods disclosed herein.

In another aspect, a computer software product for 3D printing of atleast one 3D object, comprising a non-transitory computer-readablemedium in which program instructions are stored, which instructions,when read by a computer, cause the computer to direct operations of anyof the apparatuses disclosed herein.

Another aspect of the present disclosure provides systems, apparatuses,controllers, and/or non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g.,software) that implement any of the methods disclosed herein.

In another aspect, an apparatus for printing one or more 3D objectscomprises a controller that is programmed to direct a mechanism used ina 3D printing methodology to implement (e.g., effectuate) any of themethod disclosed herein, wherein the controller is operatively coupledto the mechanism.

In another aspect, a computer software product, comprising anon-transitory computer-readable medium in which program instructionsare stored, which instructions, when read by a computer, cause thecomputer to direct a mechanism used in the 3D printing process toimplement (e.g., effectuate) any of the method disclosed herein, whereinthe non-transitory computer-readable medium is operatively coupled tothe mechanism.

Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a non-transitorycomputer-readable medium comprising machine-executable code that, uponexecution by one or more computer processors, implements any of themethods disclosed herein.

Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a computer systemcomprising one or more computer processors and a non-transitorycomputer-readable medium coupled thereto. The non-transitorycomputer-readable medium comprises machine-executable code that, uponexecution by the one or more computer processors, implements any of themethods disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, the term “3D object” may refer to one or more 3Dobjects.

Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will becomereadily apparent to those skilled in this art from the followingdetailed description, wherein only illustrative embodiments of thepresent disclosure are shown and described. As will be realized, thepresent disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, andits several details are capable of modifications in various obviousrespects, all without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, thedrawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature,and not as restrictive.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in thisspecification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent asif each individual publication, patent, or patent application wasspecifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The novel features of the invention(s) are set forth with particularityin the appended claims. A better understanding of the features andadvantages of the present invention(s) will be obtained by reference tothe following detailed description that sets forth illustrativeembodiments, in which the principles of the invention(s) are utilized,and the accompanying drawings or figures (also “FIG. ” and “Figs.”herein), of which:

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of athree-dimensional (3D) printing system and its components;

FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of a 3Dprinting system and its components;

FIGS. 3A-3B schematically illustrate vertical cross sections of 3Dprinting systems and their components;

FIGS. 4A-4B schematically illustrate vertical cross sections of 3Dprinting systems and their components;

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of componentsin a 3D printing system;

FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a computer control system that isprogrammed or otherwise configured to facilitate the formation of one ormore 3D objects;

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a processor and 3D printer architecturethat facilitates the formation of one or more 3D objects;

FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a processor and 3D printer architecturethat facilitates the formation of one or more 3D objects;

FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a flow diagram used in the printing oneor more 3D objects;

FIG. 10 shows schematics of various vertical cross-sectional views ofdifferent 3D objects;

FIG. 11 shows a horizontal view of a 3D object;

FIG. 12 schematically illustrates a 3D object;

FIGS. 13A-13C shows various 3D objects and schemes thereof;

FIG. 14 illustrates a path;

FIG. 15 illustrates various paths;

FIG. 16 shows schematics of various vertical cross-sectional views ofdifferent 3D objects;

FIG. 17 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of a 3Dobject unpacking system;

FIGS. 18A-18D schematically illustrate various views of 3D objectunpacking systems;

FIG. 19 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of a 3Dprinting system and its components;

FIG. 20 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of a 3Dprinting system and its components;

FIG. 21 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of a 3Dprinting system and its components;

FIG. 22 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of a 3Dprinting system and its components;

FIG. 23 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of acomponent of a 3D printing system;

FIG. 24 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of a 3Dprinting system and its components;

FIGS. 25A-25C schematically illustrate a vertical cross section ofcomponents of a 3D printing system;

FIGS. 26A-26C schematically illustrate a vertical cross section ofcomponents of a 3D printing system;

FIGS. 27A-27C schematically illustrate various vertical cross sectionviews of a component of a 3D printing system;

FIG. 28A schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of a 3Dprinting system and its components;

FIG. 28B schematically illustrates a horizontal cross section ofcomponents of a 3D printing system;

FIGS. 29A-29B schematically illustrate a top view of a component of a 3Dprinting system;

FIGS. 30A-30B schematically illustrate a top view of a component of a 3Dprinting system;

FIGS. 31A-31B schematically illustrate a top view of a component of a 3Dprinting system;

FIG. 32 schematically illustrates a top view of components of a 3Dprinting system;

FIG. 33 schematically illustrates a vertical cross-section of componentsof a 3D printing system;

FIGS. 34A-34B schematically illustrates vertical cross sections ofcomponents of 3D printing systems;

FIGS. 35A-35D schematically illustrates various views of components of a3D printing system;

FIGS. 36A-36D schematically illustrates various views of components of a3D printing system; and

FIG. 37 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of a 3Dobject unpacking system.

The figures and components therein may not be drawn to scale. Variouscomponents of the figures described herein may not be drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While various embodiments of the invention(s) have been shown, anddescribed herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art thatsuch embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerousvariations, changes, and substitutions may occur to those skilled in theart without departing from the invention(s). It should be understoodthat various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention(s)described herein might be employed.

Terms such as “a”, “an” and “the” are not intended to refer to only asingular entity, but include the general class of which a specificexample may be used for illustration. The terminology herein is used todescribe specific embodiments of the invention(s), but their usage doesnot delimit the invention(s).

When ranges are mentioned, the ranges are meant to be inclusive, unlessotherwise specified. For example, a range between value 1 and value 2 ismeant to be inclusive and include value 1 and value 2. The inclusiverange will span any value from about value 1 to about value 2. The term“adjacent” or “adjacent to,” as used herein, includes ‘next to’,‘adjoining’, ‘in contact with’, and ‘in proximity to.’ When “and/or” isused in a sentence such as X and/or Y, the phrase means: X, Y, or anycombination thereof

The term “operatively coupled” or “operatively connected” refers to afirst mechanism that is coupled (or connected) to a second mechanism toallow the intended operation of the second and/or first mechanism.

Performing a reversible first operation is understood herein to meanperforming the first operation and being capable of performing theopposite of that first operation (e.g., which is a second operation).For example, when a controller directs reversibly opening a shutter,that shutter can also close and the controller can optionally direct aclosure of that shutter.

The present disclosure provides three-dimensional (3D) printingapparatuses, systems, software, and methods for forming a 3D object. Forexample, a 3D object may be formed by sequential addition of material orjoining of pre-transformed material to form a structure in a controlledmanner (e.g., under manual or automated control). Pre-transformedmaterial, as understood herein, is a material before it has beentransformed during the 3D printing process. The transformation can beeffectuated by utilizing an energy beam and/or flux. The pre-transformedmaterial may be a material that was, or was not, transformed prior toits use in a 3D printing process. The pre-transformed material may be astarting material for the 3D printing process.

In some embodiments, a 3D printing process, the depositedpre-transformed material is fused, (e.g., sintered or melted), bound orotherwise connected to form at least a portion of the desired 3D object.Fusing, binding or otherwise connecting the material is collectivelyreferred to herein as “transforming” the material. Fusing the materialmay refer to melting, smelting, or sintering a pre-transformed material.Melting may comprise liquefying the material (i.e., transforming to aliquefied state). A liquefied state refers to a state in which at leasta portion of a transformed material is in a liquid state. Melting maycomprise liquidizing the material (i.e., transforming to a liquidusstate). A liquidus state refers to a state in which an entiretransformed material is in a liquid state. The apparatuses, methods,software, and/or systems provided herein are not limited to thegeneration of a single 3D object, but are may be utilized to generateone or more 3D objects simultaneously (e.g., in parallel) or separately(e.g., sequentially). The multiplicity of 3D object may be formed in oneor more material beds (e.g., powder bed). In some embodiments, aplurality of 3D objects is formed in one material bed.

In some embodiments, 3D printing methodologies comprise extrusion, wire,granular, laminated, light polymerization, or powder bed and inkjet head3D printing. Extrusion 3D printing can comprise robo-casting, fuseddeposition modeling (FDM) or fused filament fabrication (FFF). Wire 3Dprinting can comprise electron beam freeform fabrication (EBF3).Granular 3D printing can comprise direct metal laser sintering (DMLS),electron beam melting (EBM), selective laser melting (SLM), selectiveheat sintering (SHS), or selective laser sintering (SLS). Powder bed andinkjet head 3D printing can comprise plaster-based 3D printing (PP).Laminated 3D printing can comprise laminated object manufacturing (LOM).Light polymerized 3D printing can comprise stereo-lithography (SLA),digital light processing (DLP), or laminated object manufacturing (LOM).3D printing methodologies can comprise Direct Material Deposition (DMD).The Direct Material Deposition may comprise, Laser Metal Deposition(LMD, also known as, Laser deposition welding). 3D printingmethodologies can comprise powder feed, or wire deposition.

In some embodiments, the 3D printing methodologies differ from methodstraditionally used in semiconductor device fabrication (e.g., vapordeposition, etching, annealing, masking, or molecular beam epitaxy). Insome instances, 3D printing may further comprise one or more printingmethodologies that are traditionally used in semiconductor devicefabrication. 3D printing methodologies can differ from vapor depositionmethods such as chemical vapor deposition, physical vapor deposition, orelectrochemical deposition. In some instances, 3D printing may furtherinclude vapor deposition methods.

In some embodiments, the deposited pre-transformed material within theenclosure is a liquid material, semi-solid material (e.g., gel), or asolid material (e.g., powder). The deposited pre-transformed materialwithin the enclosure can be in the form of a powder, wires, sheets, ordroplets. The material (e.g., pre-transformed, transformed, and/orhardened) may comprise elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramics, or anallotrope of elemental carbon. The allotrope of elemental carbon maycomprise amorphous carbon, graphite, graphene, diamond, or fullerene.The fullerene may be selected from the group consisting of a spherical,elliptical, linear, and tubular fullerene. The fullerene may comprise abuckyball, or a carbon nanotube. The ceramic material may comprisecement. The ceramic material may comprise alumina, zirconia, or carbide(e.g., silicon carbide, or tungsten carbide). The ceramic material mayinclude high performance material (HPM). The ceramic material mayinclude a nitride (e.g., boron nitride or aluminum nitride). Thematerial may comprise sand, glass, or stone. In some embodiments, thematerial may comprise an organic material, for example, a polymer or aresin (e.g., 114 W resin). The organic material may comprise ahydrocarbon. The polymer may comprise styrene or nylon (e.g., nylon 11).The polymer may comprise a thermoplastic material. The organic materialmay comprise carbon and hydrogen atoms. The organic material maycomprise carbon and oxygen atoms. The organic material may comprisecarbon and nitrogen atoms. The organic material may comprise carbon andsulfur atoms. In some embodiments, the material may exclude an organicmaterial. The material may comprise a solid or a liquid. In someembodiments, the material may comprise a silicon-based material, forexample, silicon based polymer or a resin. The material may comprise anorganosilicon-based material. The material may comprise silicon andhydrogen atoms. The material may comprise silicon and carbon atoms. Insome embodiments, the material may exclude a silicon-based material. Thepowder material may be coated by a coating (e.g., organic coating suchas the organic material (e.g., plastic coating)). The material may bedevoid of organic material. The liquid material may be compartmentalizedinto reactors, vesicles, or droplets. The compartmentalized material maybe compartmentalized in one or more layers. The material may be acomposite material comprising a secondary material. The secondarymaterial can be a reinforcing material (e.g., a material that forms afiber). The reinforcing material may comprise a carbon fiber, Kevlar®,Twaron®, ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, or glass fiber. Thematerial can comprise powder (e.g., granular material) and/or wires. Thebound material can comprise chemical bonding Transforming can comprisechemical bonding. Chemical bonding can comprise covalent bonding. Thepre-transformed material may be pulverous. The printed 3D object can bemade of a single material (e.g., single material type) or multiplematerials (e.g., multiple material types). Sometimes one portion of the3D object and/or of the material bed may comprise one material, andanother portion may comprise a second material different from the firstmaterial. The material may be a single material type (e.g., a singlealloy or a single elemental metal). The material may comprise one ormore material types. For example, the material may comprise two alloys,an alloy and an elemental metal, an alloy and a ceramic, or an alloy andan elemental carbon. The material may comprise an alloy and alloyingelements (e.g., for inoculation). The material may comprise blends ofmaterial types. The material may comprise blends with elemental metal orwith metal alloy. The material may comprise blends excluding (e.g.,without) elemental metal or including (e.g., with) metal alloy. Thematerial may comprise a stainless steel. The material may comprise atitanium alloy, aluminum alloy, and/or nickel alloy.

In some cases, a layer within the 3D object comprises a single type ofmaterial. In some examples, a layer of the 3D object may comprise asingle elemental metal type, or a single alloy type. In some examples, alayer within the 3D object may comprise several types of material (e.g.,an elemental metal and an alloy, an alloy and a ceramic, an alloy, andan elemental carbon). In certain embodiments, each type of materialcomprises only a single member of that type. For example: a singlemember of elemental metal (e.g., iron), a single member of metal alloy(e.g., stainless steel), a single member of ceramic material (e.g.,silicon carbide or tungsten carbide), or a single member of elementalcarbon (e.g., graphite). In some cases, a layer of the 3D objectcomprises more than one type of material. In some cases, a layer of the3D object comprises more than member of a type of material.

In some examples the material bed, platform, or both material bed andplatform comprise a material type which constituents (e.g., atoms)readily lose their outer shell electrons, resulting in a free-flowingcloud of electrons within their otherwise solid arrangement. In someexamples, the powder, the base, or both the powder and the base comprisea material characterized in having high electrical conductivity, lowelectrical resistivity, high thermal conductivity, or high density. Thehigh electrical conductivity can be at least about 1*10⁵ Siemens permeter (S/m), 5*10⁵ S/m, 1*10⁶ S/m, 5*10⁶ S/m, 1*10⁷ S/m, 5*10⁷ S/m, or1*10⁸ S/m. The symbol “*” designates the mathematical operation “times.”The high electrical conductivity can be between any of theafore-mentioned electrical conductivity values (e.g., from about 1*10⁵S/m to about 1*10⁸ S/m). The thermal conductivity, electricalresistivity, electrical conductivity, electrical resistivity, and/ordensity can be measured at ambient temperature (e.g., at R. T., or 20°C.). The low electrical resistivity may be at most about 1*10⁻⁵ ohmtimes meter (Ω*m), 5*10⁻⁶ Ω*m, 1*10⁻⁶ Ω*m, 5*10⁻⁷ Ω*m, 1*10⁻⁷ Ω*m,5*10⁻⁸ or 1*10⁻⁸ Ω*m. The low electrical resistivity can be between anyof the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 1×10⁻⁸ Ωm to about1×10⁻⁸ Ωm). The high thermal conductivity may be at least about 10 Wattsper meter times Kelvin (W/mK), 15 W/mK, 20 W/mK, 35 W/mK, 50 W/mK, 100W/mK, 150 W/mK, 200 W/mK, 205 W/mK, 300 W/mK, 350 W/mK, 400 W/mK, 450W/mK, 500 W/mK, 550 W/mK, 600 W/mK, 700 W/mK, 800 W/mK, 900 W/mK, or1000 W/mK. The high thermal conductivity can be between any of theafore-mentioned thermal conductivity values (e.g., from about 20 W/mK toabout 1000 W/mK). The high density may be at least about 1.5 grams percubic centimeter (g/cm³), 1.7 g/cm³, 2 g/cm³, 2.5 g/cm³, 2.7 g/cm³, 3g/cm³, 4 g/cm³, 5 g/cm³, 6 g/cm³, 7 g/cm³, 8 g/cm³, 9 g/cm³, 10 g/cm³,11 g/cm³, 12 g/cm³, 13 g/cm³, 14 g/cm³, 15 g/cm³, 16 g/cm³, 17 g/cm³, 18g/cm³, 19 g/cm³, 20 g/cm³, or 25 g/cm³. The high density can be anyvalue between the afore mentioned values (e.g., from about 1 g/cm³ toabout 25 g/cm³).

The elemental metal can be an alkali metal, an alkaline earth metal, atransition metal, a rare-earth element metal, or another metal. Thealkali metal can be Lithium, Sodium, Potassium, Rubidium, Cesium, orFrancium. The alkali earth metal can be Beryllium, Magnesium, Calcium,Strontium, Barium, or Radium. The transition metal can be Scandium,Titanium, Vanadium, Chromium, Manganese, Iron, Cobalt, Nickel, Copper,Zinc, Yttrium, Zirconium, Platinum, Gold, Rutherfordium, Dubnium,Seaborgium, Bohrium, Hassium, Meitnerium, Ununbium, Niobium, Iridium,Molybdenum, Technetium, Ruthenium, Rhodium, Palladium, Silver, Cadmium,Hafnium, Tantalum, Tungsten, Rhenium, or Osmium. The transition metalcan be mercury. The rare-earth metal can be a lanthanide or an actinide.The antinode metal can be Lanthanum, Cerium, Praseodymium, Neodymium,Promethium, Samarium, Europium, Gadolinium, Terbium, Dysprosium,Holmium, Erbium, Thulium, Ytterbium, or Lutetium. The actinide metal canbe Actinium, Thorium, Protactinium, Uranium, Neptunium, Plutonium,Americium, Curium, Berkelium, Californium, Einsteinium, Fermium,Mendelevium, Nobelium, or Lawrencium. The other metal can be Aluminum,Gallium, Indium, Tin, Thallium, Lead, or Bismuth. The material maycomprise a precious metal. The precious metal may comprise gold, silver,palladium, ruthenium, rhodium, osmium, iridium, or platinum. Thematerial may comprise at least about 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%,97%, 98%, 99%, 99.5% or more precious metal. The powder material maycomprise at most about 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 97%, 98%, 99%,99.5% or less precious metal. The material may comprise precious metalwith any value in between the afore-mentioned values. The material maycomprise at least a minimal percentage of precious metal according tothe laws in the particular jurisdiction.

The metal alloy can comprise iron based alloy, nickel based alloy,cobalt based alloy, chrome based alloy, cobalt chrome based alloy,titanium based alloy, magnesium based alloy, or copper based alloy. Thealloy may comprise an oxidation or corrosion resistant alloy. The alloymay comprise a super alloy (e.g., Inconel). The super alloy may compriseInconel 600, 617, 625, 690, 718 or X-750. The alloy may comprise analloy used for aerospace applications, automotive application, surgicalapplication, or implant applications. The metal may include a metal usedfor aerospace applications, automotive application, surgicalapplication, or implant applications. The super alloy may comprise IN738 LC, IN 939, Rene 80, IN 6203 (e.g., IN 6203 DS), PWA 1483 (e.g., PWA1483 SX), or Alloy 247.

The metal alloys can be Refractory Alloys. The refractory metals andalloys may be used for heat coils, heat exchangers, furnace components,or welding electrodes. The Refractory Alloys may comprise a high meltingpoints, low coefficient of expansion, mechanically strong, low vaporpressure at elevated temperatures, high thermal conductivity, or highelectrical conductivity.

In some embodiments, the material (e.g., alloy or elemental) comprises amaterial used for applications in industries comprising aerospace (e.g.,aerospace super alloys), jet engine, missile, automotive, marine,locomotive, satellite, defense, oil & gas, energy generation,semiconductor, fashion, construction, agriculture, printing, or medical.The material may comprise an alloy used for products comprising,devices, medical devices (human & veterinary), machinery, cell phones,semiconductor equipment, generators, engines, pistons, electronics(e.g., circuits), electronic equipment, agriculture equipment, motor,gear, transmission, communication equipment, computing equipment (e.g.,laptop, cell phone, tablet), air conditioning, generators, furniture,musical equipment, art, jewelry, cooking equipment, or sport gear. Thematerial may comprise an alloy used for products for human or veterinaryapplications comprising implants, or prosthetics. The metal alloy maycomprise an alloy used for applications in the fields comprising humanor veterinary surgery, implants (e.g., dental), or prosthetics.

In some examples, the alloy includes a high-performance alloy. The alloymay include an alloy exhibiting at least one of excellent mechanicalstrength, resistance to thermal creep deformation, good surfacestability, resistance to corrosion, and resistance to oxidation. Thealloy may include a face-centered cubic austenitic crystal structure.The alloy may comprise Hastelloy, Inconel, Waspaloy, Rene alloy (e.g.,Rene-80, Rene-77, Rene-220, or Rene-41), Haynes alloy, Incoloy, MP98T,TMS alloy, MTEK (e.g., MTEK grade MAR-M-247, MAR-M-509, MAR-M-R41, orMAR-M-X-45), or CMSX (e.g., CMSX-3, or CMSX-4). The alloy can be asingle crystal alloy.

In some instances, the iron-based alloy can comprise Elinvar, Fernico,Ferroalloys, Invar, Iron hydride, Kovar, Spiegeleisen, Staballoy(stainless steel), or Steel. In some instances, the metal alloy issteel. The Ferroalloy may comprise Ferroboron, Ferrocerium, Ferrochrome,Ferromagnesium, Ferromanganese, Ferromolybdenum, Ferronickel,Ferrophosphorus, Ferrosilicon, Ferrotitanium, Ferrouranium, orFerrovanadium. The iron-based alloy may include cast iron or pig iron.The steel may include Bulat steel, Chromoly, Crucible steel, Damascussteel, Hadfield steel, High speed steel, HSLA steel, Maraging steel,Maraging steel (M300), Reynolds 531, Silicon steel, Spring steel,Stainless steel, Tool steel, Weathering steel, or Wootz steel. Thehigh-speed steel may include Mushet steel. The stainless steel mayinclude AL-6XN, Alloy 20, celestrium, marine grade stainless,Martensitic stainless steel, surgical stainless steel, or Zeron 100. Thetool steel may include Silver steel. The steel may comprise stainlesssteel, Nickel steel, Nickel-chromium steel, Molybdenum steel, Chromiumsteel, Chromium-vanadium steel, Tungsten steel,Nickel-chromium-molybdenum steel, or Silicon-manganese steel. The steelmay be comprised of any Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) grade suchas 440F, 410, 312, 430, 440A, 440B, 440C, 304, 305, 304L, 304L, 301,304LN, 301LN, 2304, 316, 316L, 316LN, 317L, 2205, 409, 904L, 321,254SMO, 316Ti, 321H, 17-4, 15-5, 420 or 304H. The steel may comprisestainless steel of at least one crystalline structure selected from thegroup consisting of austenitic, superaustenitic, ferritic, martensitic,duplex and precipitation-hardening martensitic. Duplex stainless steelmay be lean duplex, standard duplex, super duplex, or hyper duplex. Thestainless steel may comprise surgical grade stainless steel (e.g.,austenitic 316, martensitic 420 or martensitic 440). The austenitic 316stainless steel may include 316L or 316LVM. The steel may include 17-4Precipitation Hardening steel (also known as type 630 is achromium-copper precipitation hardening stainless steel, or 17-4PHsteel). The stainless steel may comprise 360L stainless steel.

In some examples, the titanium-based alloys include alpha alloys, nearalpha alloys, alpha and beta alloys, or beta alloys. The titanium alloymay comprise grade 1, 2, 2H, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 7H, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,14, 15, 16, 16H, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 2, 23, 24, 25, 26, 26H, 27, 28, 29,30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38 or higher. In some instances, thetitanium base alloy includes TiAl₆V₄ or TiAl₆Nb₇.

In some examples, the Nickel based alloy includes Alnico, Alumel,Chromel, Cupronickel, Ferronickel, German silver, Hastelloy, Inconel,Monel metal, Nichrome, Nickel-carbon, Nicrosil, Nisil, Nitinol,Hastelloy X, Cobalt-Chromium or Magnetically “soft” alloys. Themagnetically “soft” alloys may comprise Mu-metal, Permalloy,Supermalloy, or Brass. The Brass may include nickel hydride, stainlessor coin silver. The cobalt alloy may include Megallium, Stellite (e.g.Talonite), Ultimet, or Vitallium. The chromium alloy may includechromium hydroxide, or Nichrome.

In some examples, the aluminum-based alloy includes AA-8000, Al-Li(aluminum- lithium), Alnico, Duralumin, Hiduminium, Kryron Magnalium,Nambe, Scandium-aluminum, or, Y alloy. The magnesium alloy may beElektron, Magnox or T—Mg—Al—Zn (Bergman phase) alloy. At times, thematerial excludes at least one aluminum-based alloy (e.g., AlSi₁₀Mg).

In some examples, the copper based alloy comprises Arsenical copper,Beryllium copper, Billon, Brass, Bronze, Constantan, Copper hydride,Copper-tungsten, Corinthian bronze, Cunife, Cupronickel, Cymbal alloys,Devarda's alloy, Electrum, Hepatizon, Heusler alloy, Manganin,Molybdochalkos, Nickel silver, Nordic gold, Shakudo or Tumbaga. TheBrass may include Calamine brass, Chinese silver, Dutch metal, Gildingmetal, Muntz metal, Pinchbeck, Prince's metal, or Tombac. The Bronze mayinclude Aluminum bronze, Arsenical bronze, Bell metal, Florentinebronze, Guanin, Gunmetal, Glucydur, Phosphor bronze, Ormolu, or Speculummetal. The elemental carbon may comprise graphite, Graphene, diamond,amorphous carbon, carbon fiber, carbon nanotube, or fullerene. Thecopper alloy may be a high-temperature copper alloy (e.g., GRCop-84).

In some embodiments, the pre-transformed (e.g., powder) material (alsoreferred to herein as a “pulverous material”) comprises a solidcomprising fine particles. The powder may be a granular material. Thepowder can be composed of individual particles. At least some of theparticles can be spherical, oval, prismatic, cubic, or irregularlyshaped. At least some of the particles can have a fundamental lengthscale (e.g., diameter, spherical equivalent diameter, length, width, ordiameter of a bounding sphere). The fundamental length scale(abbreviated herein as “FLS”) of at least some of the particles can befrom about 1 nanometers (nm) to about 1000 micrometers (microns), 500microns, 400 microns, 300 microns, 200 microns, 100 microns, 50 microns,40 microns, 30 microns, 20 microns, 10 microns, 1 micron, 500 nm, 400nm, 300 nm, 200 nm, 100 nm, 50 nm, 40 nm, 30 nm, 20 nm, 10 nm, or 5 nm.At least some of the particles can have a FLS of at least about 1000micrometers (microns), 500 microns, 400 microns, 300 microns, 200microns, 100 microns, 50 microns, 40 microns, 30 microns, 20 microns, 10microns, 1 micron, 500 nm, 400 nm, 300 nm, 200 nm, 100 nm, 50 nm, 40 nm,30 nm, 20 nm, 10 nm, 5 nanometers (nm) or more. At least some of theparticles can have a FLS of at most about 1000 micrometers (microns),500 microns, 400 microns, 300 microns, 200 microns, 100 microns, 50microns, 40 microns, 30 microns, 20 microns, 10 microns, 1 micron, 500nm, 400 nm, 300 nm, 200 nm, 100 nm, 50 nm, 40 nm, 30 nm, 20 nm, 10 nm, 5nm or less. In some cases, at least some of the powder particles mayhave a FLS in between any of the afore-mentioned FLSs.

In some embodiments, the pre-transformed material is composed of ahomogenously shaped particle mixture such that all of the particles havesubstantially the same shape and FLS magnitude within at most about 1%,5%, 8%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, or lessdistribution of FLS. In some cases, the powder can be a heterogeneousmixture such that the particles have variable shape and/or FLSmagnitude. In some examples, at least about 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, or 70%(by weight) of the particles within the powder material have a largestFLS that is smaller than the median largest FLS of the powder material.In some examples, at least about 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, or 70% (by weight)of the particles within the powder material have a largest FLS that issmaller than the mean largest FLS of the powder material.

In some examples, the size of the largest FLS of the transformedmaterial (e.g., height) is greater than the average largest FLS of thepowder material by at least about 1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.4 times, 1.6times, 1.8 times, 2 times, 4 times, 6 times, 8 times, or 10 times. Insome examples, the size of the largest FLS of the transformed materialis greater than the median largest FLS of the powder material by at mostabout 1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.4 times, 1.6 times, 1.8 times, 2 times, 4times, 6 times, 8 times, or 10 times. The powder material can have amedian largest FLS that is at least about 1 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 20 μm, 30μm, 40 μm, 50 μm, 100 μm, or 200 μm. The powder material can have amedian largest FLS that is at most about 1 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 20 μm, 30μm, 40 μm, 50 μm, 100 μm, or 200 μm. In some cases, the powder particlesmay have a FLS in between any of the FLS listed above (e.g., from about1 μm to about 200 μm, from about 1 μm to about 50 μm, or from about 5 μmto about 40 μm).

In another aspect provided herein is a method for generating a 3D objectcomprising: a) depositing a layer of pre-transformed material in anenclosure (e.g., to form a material bed such as a powder bed); b)providing energy (e.g., using an energy beam) to at least a portion ofthe layer of pre-transformed material according to a path fortransforming the at least a portion of the layer of pre-transformedmaterial to form a transformed material as at least a portion of the 3Dobject; and c) optionally repeating operations a) to b) to generate the3D object. The method may further comprise after operation b) and beforeoperation c): allowing the transformed material to harden into ahardened material that forms at least a portion of the 3D object. Theenclosure may comprise at least one chamber. The enclosure (e.g., thechamber) may comprise a building platform (e.g., a substrate and/orbase). The 3D object may be printed adjacent to (e.g., above) thebuilding platform.

In another aspect provided herein is a system for generating a 3D objectcomprising: an enclosure for accommodating at least one layer ofpre-transformed material (e.g., powder); an energy (e.g., energy beam)capable of transforming the pre-transformed material to form atransformed material; and a controller that directs the energy to atleast a portion of the layer of pre-transformed material according to apath (e.g., as described herein). The transformed material may becapable of hardening to form at least a portion of a 3D object. Thesystem may comprise an energy source, an optical system, a temperaturecontrol system, a material delivery mechanism (e.g., a recoater, or alayer dispensing mechanism), a pressure control system, an atmospherecontrol system, an atmosphere, a pump, a nozzle, a valve, a sensor, acentral processing unit, a display, a chamber, or an algorithm. Thechamber may comprise a building platform. The system for generating a 3Dobject and its components may be any 3D printing system such as, forexample, the one described in Patent Application serial numberPCT/US15/36802 filed on Jun. 19, 2015, titled “APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS ANDMETHODS FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING” or in Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/317,070 filed Apr. 1, 2016, titled “APPARATUSES,SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EFFICIENT THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING”, both ofwhich are entirely incorporated herein by references. The FLS (e.g.,width, depth, and/or height) of the material bed can be at least about50 millimeters (mm), 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm, 250 mm,280 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, 1 meter (m), 2 m or 5 m. The FLS(e.g., width, depth, and/or height) of the material bed can be at mostabout 50 millimeters (mm), 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm,250 mm, 280 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, 1 meter (m), 2 m or 5 m.The FLS of the material bed can be between any of the afore-mentionedvalues (e.g., from about 50 mm to about 5 m, from about 250 mm to about500 mm, from about 280 mm to about1 m, or from about 500 mm to about 5m).

In some embodiments, the 3D printing system (e.g., FIG. 1, 100)comprises a chamber (e.g., FIG. 1, 107, comprising an atmosphere 126;FIG. 2, 216). The chamber may be referred herein as the “processingchamber.” The processing chamber may comprise an energy beam (e.g., FIG.1, 101; FIG. 2, 204) generated by an energy source (e.g., FIG. 1, 121).The energy beam may be directed towards an exposed surface (e.g., FIG.1, 119) of a material bed (e.g., FIG. 1, 104). The 3D printing systemmay comprise one or more modules (e.g., FIGS. 2, 201, 202, and 203). Theone or more modules may be referred herein as the “build modules.” Attimes, at least one build module (e.g., FIG. 1, 123) may be situated inthe enclosure comprising the processing chamber (e.g., FIG. 1,comprising an atmosphere 126). At times, at least one build module mayengage with the processing chamber (e.g., FIG. 1). At times, at leastone build module may not engage with the processing chamber (e.g., FIG.2). At times, a plurality of build modules (e.g., FIGS. 2, 201, 202, and203) may be situated in an enclosure (e.g., FIG. 2, 200) comprising theprocessing chamber (e.g., FIG. 2, 210). The build module may reversiblyengage with (e.g., couple to) the processing chamber. The engagement ofthe build module with the processing chamber may be controlled (e.g., bya controller, such as for example by a microcontroller). The control maybe automatic and/or manual. The engagement of the build module with theprocessing chamber may be reversible. In some embodiments, theengagement of the build module with the processing chamber may bepermanent. The FLS (e.g., width, depth, and/or height) of the processingchamber can be at least about 50 millimeters (mm), 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm,90 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm, 250 mm, 280 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, 1meter (m), 2 m, or 5 m. The FLS of the processing chamber can be at mostabout 50 millimeters (mm), 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm,250 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, 1 meter (m), 2 m, or 5 m. TheFLS of the processing chamber can be between any of the afore-mentionedvalues (e.g., 50 mm to about 5 m, from about 250 mm to about 500 mm, orfrom about 500 mm to about 5 m).

In some embodiments, at least one of the build modules is operativelycoupled to at least one controller. The controller may be its owncontroller. The controller may comprise a control circuit. Thecontroller may comprise programmable control code. The controller may bedifferent than the controller controlling the 3D printing process and/orthe processing chamber. The controller controlling the 3D printingprocess and/or the processing chamber may comprise a different controlcircuit than the control circuit of the build module controller. Thecontroller controlling the 3D printing process and/or the processingchamber may comprise a different programmable control code than theprogrammable control code of the build module controller. The buildmodule controller may communicate the engagement of the build module tothe processing chamber. Communicating may comprise emitting signals tothe processing chamber controller. The communication may causeinitialization of the 3D printing. The communication may cause one ormore load lock shutters to alter their position (e.g., to open). Thebuild module controller may monitor sensors (e.g., position, motion,optical, thermal, spatial, gas, gas composition or location) within thebuild module. The build module controller may control (e.g., adjust) theactive elements (e.g., actuator, atmosphere, elevator mechanism, valves,opening/closing ports, seals) within the build module based on thesensed measurements. The translation facilitator may comprise anactuator. The actuator may comprise a motor. The translation facilitatormay comprise an elevation mechanism. The translation mechanism maycomprise a gear (e.g., a plurality of gears). The gear may be circularor linear. The translation facilitator may comprise a rack and pinionmechanism, or a screw. The translation facilitator (e.g., build moduledelivery system) may comprise a controller (e.g., its own controller).The controller of the translation facilitator may be different than thecontroller controlling the 3D printing process and/or the processingchamber. The controller of the translation facilitator may be differentthan the controller of the build module. The controller of thetranslation facilitator may comprise a control circuit (e.g., its owncontrol circuit). The controller of the translation facilitator maycomprise a programmable control code (e.g., its own programmable code).The build module controller and/or the translation facilitatorcontroller may be a microcontroller. At times, the controller of the 3Dprinting process and/or the processing chamber may not interact with thecontroller of the build module and/or translation facilitator. At times,the controller of the build module and/or translation facilitator maynot interact with the controller of the 3D printing process and/or theprocessing chamber. For example, the controller of the build module maynot interact with the controller of the processing chamber. For example,the controller of the translation facilitator may not interact with thecontroller of the processing chamber. The controller of the 3D printingprocess and/or the processing chamber may be able to interpret one ormore signals emitted from (e.g., by) the build module and/or translationfacilitator. The controller of the build module and/or translationfacilitator may be able to interpret one or more signals emitted from(e.g., by) the processing chamber. The one or more signals may beelectromagnetic, electronic, magnetic, pressure, or sound signals. Theelectromagnetic signals may comprise visible light, infrared,ultraviolet, or radio frequency signals. The electromagnetic signals maycomprise a radio frequency identification signal (RFID). The RFID may bespecific for a build module, user, entity, 3D object model, processor,material type, printing instruction, 3D print job, or any combinationthereof

In some embodiments, the build module controller controls an engagementof the build module with the processing chamber and/or load-lock. Insome embodiments, the build module controller controls a dis-engagement(e.g., release and/or separation) of the build module with theprocessing chamber and/or load-lock. In some embodiments, the processingchamber controller may control the engagement of the build module withthe processing chamber and/or load-lock. The processing chambercontroller may control a dis-engagement (e.g., release, and/orseparation) of the build module with the processing chamber and/orload-lock. In some embodiments, the load-lock controller may control theengagement of the build module with the processing chamber and/orload-lock. The load-lock controller may control a dis-engagement (e.g.,release, and/or separation) of the build module with the processingchamber and/or load-lock. In some embodiments, the 3D printer comprisesone controller that is a build module controller, a processing chambercontroller, or a load-lock controller. In some embodiments, the 3Dprinter comprises at least two controllers selected from the groupconsisting of: a build module controller, a processing chambercontroller, and a load-lock controller.

In some embodiments, when a plurality of controllers are configured todirect a plurality of operations; at least two operataions of theplurality of operations can be directed by the same controller of theplurality of controllers. In some embodiments, when a plurality ofcontrollers are configured to direct a plurality of operations; at leasttwo operataions of the plurality of operations can be directed bydiffernt controllers of the plurality of controllers.

In some embodiments, the build module controller controls thetranslation of the build module, sealing status of the build module,atmosphere of the build module, engagement of the build module with theprocessing chamber, exit of the build module from the enclosure, entryof the build module into the enclosure, or any combination thereof.Controlling the sealing status of the build module may comprise openingor closing of the build module shutter. The build chamber controller maybe able to interpret signals from the 3D printing controller and/orprocessing chamber controller. The processing chamber controller may bethe 3D printing controller. For example, the build module controller maybe able to interpret and/or respond to a signal regarding theatmospheric conditions in the load lock. For example, the build modulecontroller may be able to interpret and/or respond to a signal regardingthe completion of a 3D printing process (e.g., when the printing of a 3Dobject is complete). The build module may be connected to an actuator.The actuator may be translating or stationary. In some embodiments, theactuator may be coupled to a portion of the build module. For examples,the actuator may be coupled to a bottom surface of the build module. Insome examples, the actuator may be coupled to a side surface of thebuild module (e.g., front, and/or back of the build module). Thecontroller of the build module may direct the translation facilitator(e.g., actuator) to translate the build module from one position toanother (e.g., arrows 221-224 in FIG. 2), when translation is possible.The translation facilitator (e.g., actuator) may translate the buildmodule in a vertical direction, horizontal direction or at an angle(e.g., planar and/or compound). In some examples, the build module maybe heated during translation. The translation facilitator may be a buildmodule delivery system. The translation facilitator may be autonomous.The translation facilitator may operate independently of the 3D printer(e.g., mechanisms directed by the 3D printing controller). Thetranslation facilitator (e.g., build module delivery system) maycomprise a controller and/or a motor. The translation facilitator maycomprise a machine or a human. The translation is possible, for example,when the destination position of the build module is empty. Thecontroller of the 3D printing and/or the processing chamber may be ableto sense signals emitted from the controller of the build module. Forexample, the controller of the 3D printing and/or the processing chambermay be able to sense a signal from the build module that is emitted whenthe build module is docked into engagement position with the processingchamber. The signal from the build module may comprise reaching acertain position in space, reaching a certain atmospheric characteristicthreshold, opening, or shutting the build platform closing, or engagingor disengaging (e.g., docking or undocking) from the processing chamber.The build module may comprise one or more sensors. For example, thebuild module may comprise a proximity, movement, light, sounds, or touchsensor.

In some embodiments, the build module is included as part of the 3Dprinting system. In some embodiments, the build module is separate fromthe 3D printing system. The build module may be independent (e.g.,operate independently) from the 3D printing system. For example, buildmodule may comprise their own controller, motor, elevator, buildplatform, valve, channel, or shutter. In some embodiments, one or moreconditions differ between the build module and the processing chamber,and/or among the different build modules. The difference may comprisedifferent pre-transformed materials, atmospheres, platforms,temperatures, pressures, humidity levels, oxygen levels, gas (e.g.,inert), traveling speed, traveling method, acceleration speed, or postprocessing treatment. For example, the relative velocity of the variousbuild modules with respect to the processing chamber may be different,similar, or substantially similar. The build platform may undergodifferent, similar, or substantially similar post processing treatment(e.g., further processing of the 3D object and/or material bed after thegeneration of the 3D object in the material bed is complete).

In some embodiments, at least one build module translates relative tothe processing chamber. The translation may be parallel or substantiallyparallel to the bottom surface of the build chamber. The bottom surfaceof the build chamber is the one closest to the gravitational center. Thetranslation may be at an angle (e.g., planar or compound) relative tothe bottom surface of the build chamber. The translation may use anydevice that facilitates translation (e.g., an actuator). For example,the translation facilitator may comprise a robotic arm, conveyor (e.g.,conveyor belt), rotating screw, or a moving surface (e.g., platform).The translation facilitator may comprise a chain, rail, motor, or anactuator. The translation facilitator may comprise a component that canmove another. The movement may be controlled (e.g., using a controller).The movement may comprise using a control signal and source of energy(e.g., electricity). The translation facilitator may use electricity,pneumatic pressure, hydraulic pressure, or human power.

In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises multiple buildmodules. The 3D printing system may comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,7, 8, 9, or 10 build modules. FIG. 2 shows an example of three buildmodules (e.g., FIGS. 2, 201, 202, and 203) and one processing chamber210.

In some embodiments, at least one build module (e.g., FIGS. 2, 201, 202,and 203) engages (e.g., FIG. 2, 224) with the processing chamber toexpand the interior volume of the processing chamber. At times, thebuild module may be connected to, or may comprise an autonomous guidedvehicle (AGV). The AGV may have at least one of the following: amovement mechanism (e.g., wheels), positional (e.g., optical) sensor,and controller. The controller (e.g., build module controller) mayenable self-docking of the build module (e.g., to a docking station)and/or self-driving of the AGV. The self-docking of the build module(e.g., to the processing chamber) and/or self-driving may be to and fromthe processing chamber. The build module may engage with (e.g., coupleto) the processing chamber. The engagement may be reversible. Theengagement of the build module with the processing chamber may becontrolled (e.g., by a controller). The controller may be separate froma controller that controls the processing chamber (or any of itscomponents). In some embodiments, the controller of the processingchamber may be the same controller that controls the build module. Thecontrol may be automatic, remote, local, and/or manual. The engagementof the build module with the processing chamber may be reversible. Insome embodiments, the engagement of the build module with the processingchamber may be permanent. The controller (e.g., of the build module) maycontrol the engagement of the build module with a load lock mechanism(e.g., that is coupled to the processing chamber). Control may compriseregulate, monitor, restrict, limit, govern, restrain, supervise, direct,guide, manipulate, or modulate.

In some embodiments, during at least a portion of the 3D printingprocess, the atmospheres of at least two of the processing chamber,build module, and enclosure may merge. The merging may be through a loadlock environment (e.g., FIG. 3, 314). At times, during at least aportion of the 3D printing process, the atmospheres of the chamber andenclosure may remain separate. During at least a portion of the 3Dprinting process, the atmospheres of the build module and processingchamber may be separate. The build module may be mobile or stationary.The build module may comprise an elevator. The elevator may be connectedto a platform (e.g., building platform). The elevator may be reversiblyconnected to at least a portion of the platform (e.g., to the base). Theelevator may be irreversibly connected to at least a portion of theplatform (e.g., to the substrate). The platform may be separated fromone or more walls (e.g., side walls) of the build module by a seal(e.g., FIG. 2, 211; FIG. 1, 103). The seal may be impermeable orsubstantially impermeable to gas. The seal may be permeable to gas. Theseal may be flexible. The seal may be elastic. The seal may be bendable.The seal may be compressible. The seal may comprise rubber (e.g.,latex), Teflon, plastic, or silicon. The seal may comprise a mesh,membrane, sieve, paper (e.g., filter paper), cloth (e.g., felt), orbrush. The mesh, membrane, paper and/or cloth may comprise randomlyand/or non-randomly arranged fibers. The paper may comprise a HEPAfilter. The seal may be permeable to at least one gas, and impermeableto the pre-transformed (e.g., and to the transformed) material. The sealmay not allow a pre-transformed (e.g., and to the transformed) materialto pass through.

In some embodiments, the platform is separated from the elevator by aseal (e.g., FIG. 19, 1905). The seal may be attached to the movingplatform (e.g., while the walls of the build platform are devoid of aseal). The seal may be attached to the (e.g., vertical) walls of thebuild platform (e.g., while the platform is devoid of a seal). In someembodiments, both the platform and the walls of the enclosure comprise aseal. The platform seal may be placed laterally (e.g., horizontally)between one or more walls (e.g., side walls) of the build module. Theplatform seal may be connected to the bottom plane of the platform. Theplatform seal may be permeable to gas. The platform seal may beimpermeable to particulate material (e.g., powder). The platform sealmay not permeate particulate material into the elevator mechanism. Theplatform seal may be flexible. The platform seal may be elastic. Theplatform seal may be bendable. The platform seal may be compressible.The platform seal may comprise a polymeric material (e.g., nylon,polyurethane), Teflon, plastic, rubber (e.g., latex), or silicon. Theplatform seal may comprise a mesh, membrane, sieve, paper (e.g., filterpaper), cloth (e.g., felt, or wool), or brush. The mesh, membrane, paperand/or cloth may comprise randomly and/or non-randomly arranged fibers.The paper may comprise a HEPA filter.

In some embodiments, the build module comprises multiple (e.g., two)chambers. The two chambers may be an internal chamber and an externalchamber. FIG. 19 shows an example of an internal chamber having a wall1906, and an external chamber having a wall 1907, which internal chamberis enclosed within the external chamber. At times, the bottom plane ofthe at least one of the two chambers (e.g., the internal chamber) maycomprise at least one seal (e.g., FIG. 19, 1925). The bottom seal mayallow a gas to pass through. The internal seal may be permeable to agas, but not to a pre-transformed or transformed material. For example,the internal seal may be permeable to a gas, but not to a particulatematerial. The bottom seal may be placed laterally (e.g., horizontally)between one or more walls (e.g., side walls) of the internal chamber.The bottom seal may be placed through a wall (e.g., side walls) of theinternal chamber. The bottom seal may be placed within an opening in awall (e.g., side walls) of internal chamber. The bottom seal may allow agas to circulate and/or equilibrate between the internal chamber andexternal chamber. The bottom seal may hinder passage of pre-transformedor transformed material from the first chamber to the second chamber(e.g., comprising one or more bearings and/or motors). The bottom sealmay serve as protectors of the elevation mechanism. The bottom seal maybe connected to the bottom plane of the internal chamber. The bottomseal may be placed beneath the platform. Beneath may be closer to thegravitational center. The bottom seal may not allow permeation ofpre-transformed (e.g., particulate) material into the elevator mechanism(e.g., the motor 1910 or screw 1911). The bottom seal may (e.g.,substantially) hold the atmosphere of the build module inert.Substantially may be relative to its effect on the 3D printing.Substantially may be imposing a negligible effect on the 3D printing.The bottom seal may (e.g., substantially) facilitate in maintenance ofthe atmosphere of the build module. The bottom seal may be flexible. Thebottom seal may be elastic. The bottom seal may be bendable. The bottomseal may be compressible. The bottom seal may comprise a polymermaterial (e.g., wool, nylon), Teflon, plastic, rubber (e.g., latex) orsilicon. The bottom seal may comprise a mesh, membrane, sieve, paper(e.g., filter paper), cloth (e.g., felt), or brush. The bottom seal maycomprise any material that the platform seal comprises. The material ofthe bottom seal can be (e.g., substantially) identical of different thanthe one of the platform seal. The build module and/or processing chambermay comprise an openable shutter. For example, the build module andprocessing chamber may each comprise a separate openable shutter. Theshutter may be a seal, door, blockade, stopple, stopper, plug, piston,cover, roof, hood, block, stopple, obstruction, lid, closure, or a cap.The shutter may be opened upon engagement of the build module with theprocessing chamber. The internal chamber may comprise one or moreopenings. The openings may allow the shaft and/or encoder to passthrough. The openings may be sealed by a seal (e.g., a gas permeableseal). FIG. 19 shows example of an internal chamber (e.g., 1906)comprising multiple openings at its bottom that allow the encoder 1923and the shafts 1909 to pass through, which openings comprise (e.g., gas)seals 1925.

In some examples, the shafts (e.g., FIG. 24, 2409) and/or the encoder(e.g., FIG. 24, 2423) are engulfed by a seal (e.g., FIG. 24, 2425,2440). At times, the seal may engulf a portion of the encoder and/or theshaft (e.g., engulf a horizontal cross section of the encoder and/orshaft). At times, the seal may engulf the entire shaft and/or encoder.The seal may comprise a bellow, bearing, gas flow, diaphragm, cloth, ormesh. The seal may be expandable and/or contractible. The seal may beelastic. The seal may be compressible (e.g., on pressure, or as a resultof the elevator operation). The seal may be extensible. The seal mayreturn to its original shape and/or size when released (e.g., frompressure, or vacuum). The seal may compress and/or expand relative(e.g., proportionally) to the amount of translation of the elevatormechanism (e.g., the shaft and/or the encoder). The seal may compressand/or expand relative to the amount of pressure applied (e.g., withinthe build module). The seal may reduce (e.g., prevent) permeation ofpre-transformed (e.g., particulate) material from one side of the sealto the opposing side of the seal. The seal may facilitate protection ofthe elevation mechanism (e.g., comprising a guide, rail, bearing, oractuator (e.g., motor)), by reducing (e.g., blocking) permeation of thepre-transformed material through the seal.

In some examples, a portion of the shaft (e.g., FIG. 24, 2409) isengulfed by a seal (e.g., FIG. 24, 2425). In some examples, the seal mayengulf the circumference of a vertical cross section of the shaft (e.g.,cylindric section of a cylindrical shaft). The seal may comprise atleast one elastic vessel. The seal can be compressed (e.g., whenpressure is applied), or extended (e.g., under vacuum). The seal can bea metal seal (e.g., comprising elemental metal or metal alloy). The sealmay comprise a bellow. The bellow may comprise formed (e.g., coldformed, or hydroformed), welded (e.g., edge-welded, or diaphragm) orelectroformed bellow. The Bellow may be a mechanical bellow. Thematerial of the bellow may comprise a metal, rubber, polymeric, plastic,latex, silicon, composite material, or fiber-glass. The material of thebellow may be any material mentioned herein (e.g., comprising stainlesssteel, titanium, nickel, or copper). The material may have high plasticelongation characteristic, high-strength, and/or be resistant tocorrosion. The seal may comprise a flexible element (e.g., a spring,wire, tube, or diaphragm). The seal may be (e.g., controllably)expandable and/or contractible. The control may be before, during,and/or after operation of the shaft, encoder, and/or a component of theelevation mechanism. The control may be manual and/or automatic (e.g.,using at least one controller). The seal may be elastic. The seal may beextendable and/or compressible (e.g., on pressure, or as a result of theelevator operation). The seal may comprise pneumatic, electric, and/ormagnetic elements. The seal may comprise gas that can be compressedand/or expanded. The seal may be extensible. The seal may return to itsoriginal shape and/or size when released (e.g., from positive pressure,or vacuum). The seal may extend and/or contract as a consequence of themovement of the shaft and/or encoder. The seal may extend and/orcontract as a consequence of the operation of the actuator. The seal maycompress and/or expand relative (e.g., proportionally) to the amount oftranslation of the elevation mechanism (e.g., translation facilitated bythe shaft). The seal may compress and/or expand relative to the amountof pressure applied (e.g., within the build module). The seal may reducethe amount of (e.g., prevent) permeation of particulate material fromone side of the seal (e.g., FIG. 24, 2410) to its opposite side (e.g.,FIG. 24, 2408). The seal may protect the actuator(s), by blockingpermeation of the particulate material to the area where the actuatorsreside. FIG. 24 shows an example of a vertical cross section of aplatform comprising a substrate 2430 that is operatively coupled to aplurality of shafts (e.g., FIG. 24, 2409), which shafts can move upwardsand/or downwards, which platform is able to move upwards. In the exampleshown in FIG. 24, a shaft 2409 is engulfed by at least one bellow (shownas a vertical cross section, comprising FIG. 24, 2425). The seal mayreduce (e.g., prevent) migration of a pre-transformed (or transformed)material and/or debris through a partition (e.g., wall) that separatesthe platform from the actuator (e.g., motor) of the shaft and/or encoder(e.g., FIG. 24, 2423), and/or guide (e.g., railing). The seal may reduce(e.g., hinder) migration of a pre-transformed (or transformed) materialand/or debris from the material bed (e.g., FIG. 24, 2435) towards theactuator (e.g., motor) and/or guide (e.g., railing). The seal (e.g.,FIG. 24, 2430) may facilitate confinement of pre-transformed (ortransformed) material and/or debris in one side of the partition (e.g.,FIG. 24, 2410). The seal may facilitate separation between thepre-transformed (or transformed) material and/or debris and the actuatorand/or railing that facilitates movement of the platform. The seal mayfacilitate proper operation of the actuator and/or railing, by reducingthe amount of (e.g., preventing) pre-transformed (or transformed)material and/or debris from reaching (e.g., and clogging) them. The seal(e.g., FIG. 24, 2430) may reduce an amount of (e.g., prevent)pre-transformed (or transformed) material and/or debris from crossingthe partition. The seal may facilitate cleaning the shaft and/or encoderfrom pre-transformed material and/or debris.

In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises a load-lockmechanism. The load-lock mechanism may be operatively coupled to aprocessing chamber and/or a build module. FIG. 3A shows an example of aprocessing chamber (e.g., FIG. 3A, 310) and a build module (e.g., FIG.3A, 320). The processing chamber comprises the energy beam (e.g., FIG.3A, 311). The build module comprises a build platform comprising asubstrate (e.g., FIG. 3A, 321), a base (e.g., FIG. 3A, 322), and anelevator shaft (e.g., FIG. 3A, 323; FIG. 19, 1909; and FIG. 24, 2409)that allows the platform to move vertically up and down. The elevatorshaft may comprise a single shaft (e.g., FIG. 3A, 323). The elevatorshaft may comprise a plurality of shafts (e.g., FIG. 19, 1909; and FIG.24, 2409). In some embodiments, as a part of the load-lock mechanism,the build module (e.g., FIG. 3A, 320) may comprise a shutter (e.g., FIG.3A, 324). In some embodiments, as a part of the load-lock mechanism, theprocessing chamber (e.g., FIG. 3A, 310) may comprise a shutter (e.g.,FIG. 3A, 312). The shutter may be openable (e.g., by the build modulecontroller, the processing chamber controller, or the load lockcontroller). The shutter may be removable (e.g., by the build modulecontroller, the processing chamber controller, or the load lockcontroller). The removal of the shutter may comprise manual or automaticremoval. The build module shutter may be opened while being connected tothe build module. The processing chamber shutter may be opened whilebeing connected to the processing chamber (e.g., through connector). Theshutter connector may comprise a hinge, chain, or a rail. In an example,the shutter may be opened in a manner similar to opening a door or awindow. The shutter may be opened by swiveling (e.g., similar to openinga door or a window held on a hinge). The shutter may be opened by itsremoval from the opening which it blocks. The removal may be guided(e.g., by a rail, arm, pulley, crane, or conveyor). The guiding may beusing a robot. The guiding may be using at least one motor and/or gear.The shutter may be opened while being disconnected from the buildmodule. For example, the shutter may be opened similar to opening a lid.The shutter may be opened by shifting or sliding (e.g., to a side). FIG.3B shows an example where the shutter (FIG. 3B, 374) of the build module(FIG. 3B, 370) is open in a way that is disconnected from the buildmodule. FIG. 3B shows an example where the shutter (FIG. 3B, 354) of theprocessing chamber (FIG. 3B, 350) is open in a way that is disconnectedfrom the processing chamber.

In some embodiments, the 3D printing system (e.g., 3D printer) comprisesa secondary locking mechanism (e.g., also referred to herein as a“secondary locker”). The secondary locker may facilitate engagementand/or locking of the build module (e.g., FIG. 33, 3325) to theprocessing chamber (e.g., comprising atmosphere FIG. 33, 3330) and/or tothe load lock. The secondary locker may brace, band, clamp, or clasp thebuild module to the load lock and/or processing chamber. The secondarylocker may hold the build module together with the (i) processingchamber and/or (ii) load lock. The secondary locker may comprise aclamping station. The secondary locker may comprise a docking station.The secondary locker may comprise a first supporting component (e.g., afirst shelf, e.g., FIG. 33, 3320)), and a second supported component(e.g., a second shelf, e.g., FIG. 33, 3335). The supporting componentsmay move laterally (e.g., horizontally). The supporting components mayrotate about an axis (e.g., vertical axis). The supporting componentsmay move (e.g., laterally or about an axis to facilitate engagement(e.g., clamping) of the build module with the processing chamber. Thebuild module may comprise the supported component (e.g., FIG. 33, 3335)of the secondary locker. The supported component may be a fixture (e.g.,first fixture). The supporting component may be a hook. The processingchamber and/or load lock may comprise the supporting component (e.g.,FIG. 33, 3320) of the secondary locker. The supporting component may bea fixture (e.g., second fixture). The build module may engage thesupported component coupled thereto, with the supporting component thatis coupled to the processing chamber, which engagement may facilitateengagement of the build module with the processing chamber. The buildmodule may engage the supported component coupled thereto, with thesupporting component of the load lock. The engagement may facilitatecoupling of the build module with the load lock. At least one componentof the secondary locker may be coupled to the load-lock. At least onecomponent of the secondary locker may be positioned adjacent to the loadlock, and/or to the processing chamber. At least one component of thesecondary locker may be positioned adjacent to the load lock. Forexample, at least one component of the secondary locker may be coupledto a bottom surface of the load-lock. For example, at least onecomponent of the secondary locker (e.g., supporting structure, e.g.,shelf or hook) may be coupled to at a bottom surface of the processingchamber. The secondary locker may facilitate securing the build moduleto the processing chamber and/or load-lock. The secondary locker may be(e.g., controllably) engaged (e.g., latched). The secondary locker maybe disengaged (e.g., un-latched). The components of the secondary lockermay engage and/or disengage before, or after the 3D printing. Thecontrol may be manual and/or automatic. The control may comprise one ormore controllers that are operatively coupled to at least one componentof the secondary locker. The secondary lock may be formed (e.g., thesupporting and supported components engaged) before and/or after theload-lock is formed. The secondary locker may be un-locked (e.g.,unlatch, or de-clamp) before and/or after the load-lock is released. Thesecondary locker may comprise an interlocking mechanism (e.g., aclamping mechanism). The interlocking mechanism may comprise a screw,nut, cam lock, kinematic coupling, or an interlocking wedge and cavitymechanism. The interlocking mechanism may include a clamping mechanism.The clamping mechanism may be any clamping mechanism described herein. Afirst (e.g., supported) component of the interlocking mechanism may becoupled to a portion of the external engagement mechanism and/or buildmodule. A second (e.g., supporting) component of the interlockingmechanism may be coupled to the processing chamber and/or load lock(e.g., a bottom surface of the load-lock). In some embodiments, thefirst component and the second component of the secondary locker may becoupled (e.g., interlocked, clamped, connected, fastened, locked,latched, or clasped) to facilitate engagement of the build module withthe processing chamber and/or load-lock. FIG. 33 shows an example of asecondary locker that facilitates engagement of the processing chamberwith the build module. A portion of the external engagement mechanism(e.g., a translation facilitator, FIG. 33, 3323) may translate the buildmodule (e.g., FIG. 33, 3325) to engage with the processing chamber(e.g., comprising atmosphere FIG. 33, 3330). The engagement of the buildmodule with the processing chamber may be facilitated by the externalengagement mechanism (e.g., as described herein). The externalengagement mechanism may comprise an actuator. The translation of thebuild module towards the processing chamber may be detected by one ormore detectors (e.g., disposed along the way). The temperature withinthe build module (e.g., during the translation and/or engagement) may becontroller and/or altered. For example, the build module temperature maybe cooled and/or heated (e.g., during the translation and/or engagementwith the processing chamber and/or load lock). The actuator may becontrolled (e.g., manually and/or by a controller) before, during and/orafter the 3D printing. The external engagement mechanism may be externalto the build module. The engagement of the build module with theprocessing chamber may form the load-lock. The load lock may comprise abottom shutter of the processing chamber (e.g., FIG. 33, 3312) a shutterof the build module (e.g., FIG. 33, 3324), the secondary locker, and anoptional supporting structure (e.g., FIG. 33, 3305). The supportingstructure may couple (e.g., physically) the supporting component of thesecondary locker to the processing chamber. The secondary locker may besecured using an interlocking mechanism. The first component of thesecondary locker (e.g., 3320) may be complementary to the secondcomponent of the secondary locker (e.g., FIG. 33, 3335). The supportingstructure (e.g., FIG. 33, 3305) and/or first component of the secondarylocker (FIG. 33, 3320) may be translatable (e.g., rotatable). Forexample, the supporting structure may rotate about a vertical axis tocause the first component that is attached thereto, to rotate (e.g.,towards the build module). For example, the first component maytranslate (e.g., horizontally) towards or away from the build module.The translation of the supporting structure and/or first component mayfacilitate latching the build module to the processing chamber and/orload lock. The second component (e.g., FIG. 33, 3335), may comprise acavity, or a protrusion (e.g., FIG. 34A, 3422). The contact of the firstcomponent (e.g., FIG. 34B, 3461) with the second component (e.g., FIG.34B, 3460) may be (e.g., substantially) gas tight. The contact of thefirst component with the second component may allow exchange of anatmosphere in the load lock and/or processing chamber. The contact maybe between two (e.g., smooth, or flat) surfaces. For example, thecontact may be a metal to metal contact. The metal may compriseelemental metal or metal alloy. The secondary locker may comprisebearing. In some embodiments, the supported and/or supporting componentmay comprise a compressible material. The compressible material maycomprise an O-ring, ball, or slab. The compressible material may becompressed upon engagement of the supported component with thesupporting component, to allow a tight engagement (e.g., gas tightengagement).

In some embodiments, the build module engages with the processingchamber. The engagement may comprise engaging the supported componentwith the supporting component. The supported component (e.g., firstfixture) may be operatively coupled to the build module. The supportedcomponent may be able to carry the weight of the build module, 3Dobject, material bed, or any combination thereof. The supportingcomponent (e.g., second fixture) may be operatively coupled to theprocessing chamber. The supporting component may be operatively coupledto the processing chamber through the load lock. For example, thesupporting component may be directly coupled to the processing chamber.For example, the supporting component may be directly coupled to theload lock that is coupled to the processing chamber. The supportedcomponent may be able to support a weight of the build module, 3Dobject, material bed, or any combination thereof. The supportingcomponent may be able to support a weight of at least about 10 kilograms(Kg), 50 Kg, 100 Kg, 500 Kg, 1000 Kg, 1500 Kg, 2000 Kg, 2500 Kg, 3000Kg, or 5000 Kg. The supporting component may be able to support theweight of at most about 500 Kg, 1000 Kg, 1500 Kg, 2000 Kg, 2500 Kg, 3000Kg, or 5000 Kg. The supporting component may be able to support a weightof any weight value between the afore mentioned weight values (e.g.,from about 10 Kg to about 5000 Kg, from about 10 Kg to about 500 Kg,from about 100 Kg to about 2000 Kg, or from about 1000 Kg to about 5000Kg). The supported component may be able to carry a weight having any ofthe weight values that the supporting component is able to support. Insome embodiments, the supported component comprises a plurality of parts(e.g., even number of parts). In some embodiments, the supportingcomponent comprises a plurality of parts (e.g., even number of parts).At times, the two parts in a pair of parts of the supported componentare disposed at opposing sides of the build module (e.g., FIG. 33,3335). The parts of the supporting component are disposed in a mannerthat facilitates coupling of the supported component part(s) with thesupporting component part(s).

In some embodiments, the engagement of the supported component with thesupported component is eased. The ease may be facilitated by including aslanted surface in the supporting and/or supported component. The easemay be facilitated by including a rolling surface (e.g., a wheel orball) in the supporting and/or supported component. In some examples, atleast a part of the supporting component comprises a slanted surface,and at least a part of the supported component comprises the rollingsurface. In some examples, at least a part of the supported componentcomprises a slanted surface, and at least a part the supportingcomponent comprises a rolling surface. For example, the supportingcomponent comprises a slanted surface, and the supported componentcomprises a rolling surface. For example, the supported componentcomprises a slanted surface, and the supporting component comprises arolling surface. For example, a first part of the supported componentcomprises a slanted surface, and a complementary first part of thesupporting component comprises a rolling surface; a second part of thesupporting component comprises a slanted surface, and a complementarysecond part of the supported component comprises a rolling surface.

In some embodiments, the build module, processing chamber, and/orenclosure comprises one or more seals. The seal may be a sliding seal ora top seal. For example, the build module and/or processing chamber maycomprise a sliding seal that meets with the exterior of the build moduleupon engagement of the build module with the processing chamber. Forexample, the processing chamber may comprise a top seal that faces thebuild module and is pushed upon engagement of the processing chamberwith the build module. For example, the build module may comprise a topseal that faces the processing chamber and is pushed upon engagement ofthe processing chamber with the build module. The seal may be a faceseal, or compression seal. The seal may comprise an O-ring.

In some embodiments, the build module, processing chamber, and/orenclosure are sealed, sealable, or open. The atmosphere of the buildmodule, processing chamber, and/or enclosure may be regulated. The buildmodule may be sealed, sealable, or open. The processing chamber may besealed, sealable, or open. The enclosure may be sealed, sealable, oropen. The build module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure maycomprise a valve and/or a gas opening port. The valve and/or a gasopening port may be below, or above the building platform. The valveand/or a gas opening port may be disposed at the horizontal plane of thebuild platform. The valve and/or a gas opening port may be disposed atthe adjacent to the build platform. The valve and/or a gas opening portmay be disposed between the processing chamber and the build module.FIG. 3A shows an example of a channel 315 that allows a gas to passthrough, which channel has an opening port 317 disposed between theprocessing chamber 310 and the build module 320. FIG. 3A shows anexample of a valve 316 that is disposed along the channel 315. The valvemay allow at least one gas to travel through. The gas may enter or exitthrough the valve. For example, the gas may enter or exit the buildmodule, processing chamber, and/or enclosure through the valve. In someembodiments, the atmosphere of the build module, processing chamber,and/or enclosure may be individually controlled. In some embodiments,the atmosphere of at least two of the build module, processing chamber,and enclosure may be separately controlled. In some embodiments, theatmosphere of at least two of the build module, processing chamber, andenclosure may be controlled in concert (e.g., simultaneously). In someembodiments, the atmosphere of at least one of the build module,processing chamber, or enclosure may be controlled by controlling theatmosphere of at least one of the build module, processing chamber, orenclosure in any combination or permutation. In some examples, theatmosphere in the build module is not controllable by controlling theatmosphere in the processing chamber.

In some embodiments, the processing chamber comprises a removableshutter. The processing chamber may comprise an opening (e.g., aprocessing chamber opening) which can be closed by the processingchamber shutter. The processing chamber shutter may be reversiblyremovable from the processing chamber opening. The processing chamberopening may face the gravitational center, and/or the build module. Theprocessing chamber opening may face a direction opposing the opticalwindow (e.g., FIG. 34B, 3462, e.g., through which the energy beamirradiates into the processing chamber). The removable shutter can becontrollably and/or reversibly removable (e.g., from the processingchamber opening). Control may comprise any controller disclosed herein.The processing chamber shutter may separate (e.g., and isolate) theinterior of the processing chamber from an ambient (e.g., external)atmosphere. FIG. 34A, 3416 shows an example of a processing chambershutter, that separates an interior environment 3418 of the processingchamber 3410 from an external environment 3419. In some embodiments, thebuild module comprises a build module shutter (e.g., FIG. 34A, 3417)that separates (e.g., isolates) an interior environment 3420 of thebuild module 3414 from an external environment 3419. The separation ofenvironments may facilitate maintaining less reactive, oxygen depleted,humidity depleted, and/or inert atmosphere in the interior of theprocessing chamber and/or build module. The build module shutter mayengage with the processing chamber shutter. The build module maycomprise an opening (e.g., a build module opening) which can be closedby the build module shutter. The build module shutter may be reversiblyremovable from the build module opening. The build module opening mayface a direction opposite to the gravitational center. The build moduleopening may face the processing chamber. The build module opening mayface a direction of the optical window (e.g., FIG. 34B, 3462. Theengagement of the build module with the processing chamber may bereversible and/or controlled (e.g., manually and/or using a controller).In some embodiments, the build module shutter may engage with theprocessing chamber shutter. The engagement of these shutters mayfacilitate merging the processing chamber atmosphere with the buildmodule atmosphere. The engagement of these shutters may facilitatemerging the build module opening with the processing chamber opening.The merging of the shutters may facilitate irradiation of the energybeam (e.g., FIG. 34B, 3459) through the processing chamber (e.g., FIG.34B, 3450) onto a material bed that is supported by a platform, or ontothe platform (e.g., FIG. 34B, 3460). The platform may originate from thebuild module (e.g., FIG. 34B, 3454). The engagement of the build moduleshutter (e.g., FIG. 34B, 3457) with the processing chamber shutter(e.g., FIG. 34B, 3456) may be reversible and/or controlled (e.g.,manually and/or using a controller). The engagement of the shutters mayfacilitate removal of both shutter collectively. In some examples, theshutters may not engage. The removal (e.g., by translation) of the buildmodule shutter and the processing chamber shutter may be in the samedirection or in different directions. The translation may be to anydirection (e.g., any of the six spatial directions). The direction maycomprise a Cartesian direction. The direction may comprise a cardinaldirection. The direction may be horizontal (e.g., FIG. 34A, 3401) orvertical (e.g., FIG. 34A, 3402). The direction may be lateral. In someexamples, the shutters may be removed (e.g., from a position where theyshut the opening) separately. FIG. 34B shows an example where theshutters 3456 and 3457 are engaged and are removed from theirshut-positions, to allow merging of the processing chamber environmentwith the build module environment, to facilitate 3D printing.

In some embodiments, one shutter (e.g., lid) comprises an engagingmechanism that engages with a second shutter (e.g., lid). The oneshutter may be the processing chamber shutter, and the second shuttermay be the build module shutter, or vice versa. In some embodiments,both the one shutter and the second shutter comprise engaging mechanismsthat engages with the pairing shutter. For example, the processingchamber shutter (e.g., lid) and the build module shutter compriseengaging mechanisms that engage with each other. The engagement may becontrollable and/or reversible. Control may be manual and/or automatic.The engagement mechanism may comprise physical, magnetic, electrostatic,electronic, or hydraulic force. For example, the engagement mechanismmay comprise a physical force. The engagement mechanism may comprise alatching configuration in which at least one portion of the one shutterengages with at least one portion of the second shutter to facilitatetheir mutual translation in a direction. For example, the engagementmechanism may comprise a latching configuration in which at least oneportion of the processing chamber shutter engages with at least oneportion of the build module shutter to facilitate their mutualtranslation in a direction. The latching mechanism may comprise astationary portion on the one shutter, and a rotating portion on thesecond shutter. The latching mechanism may comprise movable portions onboth pairing shutters (e.g., which move towards each other, e.g., inopposing directions). The movement (e.g., rotation) may facilitatepairing (e.g., engagement) of the shutters. The engagement mechanism maycomprise a continuous or non-continuous (e.g., FIGS. 35, 3551 and 3552)ledge. The engagement mechanism may comprise rotating or non-rotating(e.g., stationary) ledge (e.g. latch). In some embodiments, at least aportion of a shutter may translate (e.g., rotate) to facilitateengagement of the two shutters. For example, the slab (e.g., FIG. 35,3553) may translate (e.g., rotate) to facilitate engagement of theshutters. For example, the shutter may translate (e.g., rotate) tofacilitate engagement of the two shutters. For example, the build module(e.g., along with its shutter) may translate (e.g., rotate) tofacilitate engagement of the shutters. In some embodiments, the ledges(e.g., latches) are stationary. In some embodiments, the ledges aremovable. For example, the ledges may swing (e.g., about a verticalcenter, or off the vertical center of their vertical portion) tofacilitate engagement of the shutters. The shutter may be in anyorientation. The shutter may be sensitive to its position in space(e.g., using one or more positional sensors). FIG. 35A shows a side viewexample of a build module shutter 3517 and a processing chamber shutter3516 as part of a 3D printer (e.g., comprising FIG. 35A, 3511); thebuild module shutter 3517 comprises a spring 3513 that (e.g.,controllably) pushes a pin 3512 upwards in the direction 3510, which pin3512 is connected to a slab 3514. The spring may be released by removinga pin and/or using an actuator. The pin may be rotatable (e.g., alongthe vertical axis, which rotation may be controllable. In the exampleshown in FIG. 35A, the processing chamber shutter 3516 comprises adepression 3523 that can accommodate the slab 3514. The processingchamber shutter in the example shown in FIG. 35A, comprises two ledges3521 and 3522 that can support the slab 3514 upon engagement. The ledgesmay be able to support the weight of the build module shutter 3517. FIG.35B shows a side view example of a build module shutter 3537 and aprocessing chamber shutter 3536 as part of a 3D printer (e.g.,comprising FIG. 35B, 3531); the build module shutter 3537 comprises aspring 3533 that (e.g., controllably) retracts a pin 3532 downwards (ina direction opposing the direction 3510), which pin 3532 is connected toa slab 3534. In the example shown in FIG. 35B, the processing chambershutter 3536 comprises a depression 3543 that accommodates the slab 3534as it engages with the ledges 3541 and 3542. FIG. 35C shows a top viewexample of the rotatable slab 3553, which may (e.g., controllably)rotate 3554 about the vertical axis 3555, to engage with the two ledges3551 and 3552. FIG. 35D shows a top view examples of a slab 3573, whichengages with two ledges 3571 and 3572 such that a portion of the slaboverlaps with the ledges. The overlap is schematically illustrated witha transparent slab 3583 that has a partially overlapping area with thearea of the ledges 3581 and 3582, which overlapping areas 3585 and 3584.The respective movement may facilitate engagement and/or disengage witha (e.g., stationary) of the one shutter with the second shutter. Therotation of one shutter portion with respect to the other shutterportion may be along a vertical axis. At least one ledge (e.g., all theledges) may be an integral part of the shutter; may be removable and/ormay be replaceable. In some embodiments, a portion (e.g., slab) of oneshutter may be attracted to the second shutter. Attraction may comprisea mechanical, magnetic, electronic, electrostatic, pneumatic (e.g., gaspressure and/or vacuum suction), or hydraulic force. The mechanicalforce may comprise a spring. The electronic force may comprise anactuator. The magnetic force may comprise a magnet.

In some embodiments, the first shutter and/or second shutter areoperatively coupled to a mechanism that facilitates movement away fromthe processing cone. The processing cone is the area where the energybeam can translate (e.g., travel) during the 3D printing. For example,the movement may be to a side (e.g., FIG. 35B, 3530) of the processingcone. In some examples, the first shutter and/or second shutter areconfigured to travel along a shaft (e.g., rail, and/or bar). FIG. 35Ashows an example of a rail 3520 which is coupled to the processingchamber shutter 3516. The rail may comprise one or more rotating devices(e.g., wheels, cylinders, and/or balls), which facilitate (e.g., smooth,e.g., reduced friction) translation of one or more shutters (e.g., alongthe direction 3530). The direction may be a lateral (e.g., horizontal)direction. FIG. 35B shows an example of engagement in sideways motion(e.g., along FIG. 35B, 3530), as the rotating devices rotate 3539. Theshaft may be coupled to one or more linkages (e.g., FIG. 35A, 3518). Thelinkages may pivot. The linkages may comprise a hinge. The one or morelinkages may facilitate movement of the shaft in a direction (e.g., FIG.35B, 3544). The linkages may facilitate lateral (e.g., horizontal)and/or vertical movement of the shaft. For example, the linkages may,facilitate converting the lateral shaft movement to a vertical movement.The one or more linkages may swivel (e.g., to facilitate movement in adirection, e.g., FIG. 35B, 3544). The shaft can actuate lateraltranslation of the one or more shutters. The shaft may be guide. Theshaft may comprise a cam follower or track follower. The shaft maycomprise one or more bearings (e.g., roller bearing, or needle bearing).The shaft may comprise a mating part. The shaft may comprise a stud or ayoke. The stud may comprise an eccentric stud. The shaft may comprise areducing friction element (e.g., rotating device). The shaft may becrowned or cylindrical. The shaft (or its mating part) may comprise aslot. The shaft may comprise a bushing. The shaft may be adjustable(e.g., during installation), for example, to reduce (e.g., eliminate)backlash. For instance, the bushing may facilitate adjustment of theshaft (e.g., during installation), for example, to reduce (e.g.,eliminate) backlash.

In some embodiments, the build module translates in an upwards directionfollowing engagement with the processing chamber. FIG. 34A shows thebeginning of an engagement process of the build module 3414 with theprocessing chamber 3410. FIG. 34B shows continuation of the engagementprocess, in which the shutters 3456 and 3457 are removed to remove theseparation between the build module and the processing chamber, thebuild module translates (e.g., vertically) towards the energy source3458, to a (e.g., preferred) position where the energy beam 3459 canfacilitate printing the 3D object. The movement of the one or moreshutters and/or build module may be controlled (e.g. in real time). Thecontrol may comprise sensing signals from one or more sensors. Theatmosphere in the build module and/or processing chamber can bemaintained (e.g., as different from the ambient atmosphere) throughoutthe engagement process of the processing chamber with the build module(e.g., through usage of one or more seals). The sensors and/or seals arerepresented in FIG. 34A by small circles 3421. The seal may be a gastight seal. The seal may be a physical barrier (e.g., and not gastight).

The engagement of the two shutters described herein may be utilized whenengaging the build module with the processing chamber and/or with theunpacking station. The engagement of the shutter may form a load lock(e.g., the load lock may be formed between the shutters). The engagementof the two shutters may be used when engaging the build module with aload lock. The engagement of the two shutters can be controlled (e.g.,manually and/or automatically using a controller) before, during and/orafter the 3D printing.

In some embodiments, the shutter may comprise one or more components(e.g., segments, or portions). At least one of the shutter componentsmay be (e.g., controllably) translatable. For example, the build moduleshutter may comprise two horizontal sections that are separable (e.g.,upon exertion of pressure, e.g., FIG. 36B, 3631 and 3634). The pressurecan be effectuated by an actuator (e.g., pneumatic, electric, magnetic,or hydraulic actuator). For example, the processing chamber shutter(e.g., FIG. 36A, 3612) may comprise at least one (e.g., vertical)translatable pin (e.g., FIG. 36A, 3610). For example, the processingchamber shutter may comprise at least one (e.g., vertical) translatablepin. For example, the processing chamber may comprise at least one latch(e.g., FIG. 36B, 3635). The latch may be swiveling and/or contractible.The latch may be a hook. In some examples, the pairing of the shutterscomprises translating one or more translatable components of at leastone of the pairing shutters. For example, the pairing of the shuttersmay comprise forcing the horizontal components of the build moduleshutter (e.g., FIG. 36B, 3631 and 3634) to separate, e.g., by pushingthe translatable pin (e.g., FIG. 36B, 3630) of the build module. The(e.g., vertical) gap and/or structural void between the processingchamber shutter and the build module shutter may constitute a load lock.

In some embodiments, the build module shutter couples to, or comprise, aseal (e.g., FIG. 34A, 3423). The seal may be formed from a flexible(elastic, contractible) material. For example, the seal may comprise apolymeric material, or a resin. For example, the seal may compriserubber or latex. The seal may (e.g., horizontally) surround the buildmodule. Horizontally surrounding of the build module shutter mayfacilitate separating the internal environment of the build module fromthe external environment. For example, the seal may be a ring (e.g.,O-ring, or doughnut shaped ring). The seal may separate the interior ofthe build module from the external environment. The seal may be gastight. The seal may reduce gas exchange between the external environmentand the interior environment of the build module. In one configuration,the shutter may press the seal against a wall for (e.g., substantially)preserve an interior environment. For example, in one configuration ofthe build module shutter, the build module shutter seal may be (e.g.,laterally) pressed towards the build module walls to (e.g.,substantially) preserve the build module interior environment. Thelateral (e.g., horizontal) pressure of the seal towards the walls maywithstand a pressure of at least 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.8. or 2.0PSI above ambient pressure (e.g., atmospheric pressure). The pairing ofthe shutters may facilitate contraction of a seal. For example, thepairing of the shutters may comprise forcing separation of thehorizontal components of the build module shutter to separate, and allowcontraction of a seal (e.g., FIG. 36A, 3617 and 3618). The contractionof the seal may facilitate separation of the build module shutter (e.g.,FIG. 34A, 3417) from the build module container (e.g., FIG. 34A, 3414).FIG. 36A shows a vertical cross section of portions of a build modulebody (e.g., wall FIG. 36A, 3616) that is enclosed by a shutter thatincludes horizontal portions 3611 and 3614 held in close proximity; theportions are aligned and held by pins (e.g., FIG. 36A, 3621). In theexample shown in FIG. 36A, the pins are coupled to springs. The buildmodule shutter can comprise at least one seal (shown as cross sectionsin FIG. 36A, 3618 and 3617). The seal can surround the shutter. Forexample, the seal can be ring shaped. In the example shown in FIG. 36A,the seal is pressed towards the walls (e.g., FIG. 36A, 3616) of thebuild module when the horizontal portions of the seals are heldtogether. At least one horizontal shutter portion edge may be slanted.The slanting edge may contact the seal. An alteration of the verticalposition of the slanted edge with respect to the seal may facilitatelateral movement of the seal. The seal may tend to move to one lateraldirection (e.g., as it contracts). The vertical movement of the slantededge may force the seal to move in a second lateral direction oppositeto the one direction. FIG. 36A shows an example of a slanted edge of thehorizontal shutter portion 3614 that meets the seal 3618, and a slantededge of the horizontal shutter portion 3611 that meets the seal 3618. Inthe example shown in FIG. 36A, the two horizontal shutter portionshaving the slanted edges are in close proximity, which forces the sealtowards the build module wall. FIG. 36B shows an example of a slantededge of the horizontal shutter portion 3634 that meets the seal 3638,and a slanted edge of the horizontal shutter portion 3631 that meets theseal 3638. In the example shown in FIG. 36B, the two horizontal shutterportions having the slanted edges are pushed away from each other whichallows the seal to contract away from the build module wall 3636. FIG.36A shows a vertical cross sectional example of a processing chambershutter 3612 that comprises a vertically translatable 3613 pin 3610 thatis supported by springs (e.g., FIG. 36A, 3619). The processing chambershutter shown in FIG. 36A comprises (e.g., controllable) swivelinglatches (e.g., FIG. 36A, 3615). In the example shown in FIG. 36A, thepin 3610 is not pushed towards the build module shutter. The pin can bevertically translatable (e.g., FIG. 36A, 3613). FIG. 36B shows avertical cross sectional example of a processing chamber shutter 3632that comprises a vertically translatable 3641 pin 3630 that iscompressed towards the build module shutter. FIG. 36A shown an exampleof a translation mechanism that includes railing 3620, one or morerotating devices 3623, a shaft 3624, cam guide (e.g., track) 3625, and acam follower 3626; which translation mechanism is coupled to theprocessing chamber shutter 3612 by one or more linkages. The one or morelinkages may swivel, pivot, revolve, and/or swing. The one or morelinkages may facilitate translation of the shutter(s) along the rail.The translation mechanism may comprise a shaft, rotating device, rail,cam follower, cam guide, or a linkage. The linkage may be coupled to atleast a portion of the processing chamber shutter and/or the buildmodule shutter. The shaft may push the one or more rotating devices tofacilitate translation of the shutter(s). For example, the shaft maypush the one or more rotating devices (e.g., revolving devices) alongthe rail to facilitate (e.g., lateral) translation of the shutter(s)along the rail. The translation of the shutter(s) may be guided by a camguide and/or cam follower. The translation mechanism may be configuredto translate the shutter(s) vertically (e.g., FIG. 36B, 3643) and/orhorizontally (e.g., FIG. 36B, 3644). The translation mechanism may beconfigured to translate the shutter(s) laterally. The translationmechanism may be configured to translate the shutter(s) towards anopening and/or away from an opening. The opening may be of theprocessing chamber and/or of the build module. The translation mechanismmay be coupled to at least one portion of the processing chamber shutterand/or build module shutter. The processing chamber shutter shown inFIG. 36B comprises (e.g., controllable) latches (e.g., FIG. 36A, 3615)that translate to a position in which they horizontally overlap at leastin part with at least a portion of the build module shutter 3631. Thelatches may be swiveling latches. The translation to the position may beby swiveling, swinging, or rotating (e.g., about a vertical axis). Inthe example shown in FIG. 36B, a pushing of pin 3630 towards the buildmodule facilitates (vertical) separation of the first build moduleshutter portion 3631 from the second build module shutter portion 3634.FIG. 36C shows a horizontal view of the build module shutter 3653 (e.g.,analogous to FIG. 36A, 3614 and 3611), the processing chamber shutter3654 (e.g., analogous to FIG. 36A, 3612), a pin 3655 (e.g., analogous toFIG. 36A, 3610) coupled to the processing chamber shutter, a void withinthe structure of the build module shutter 3652 (e.g., analogous to thevoid FIG. 36A, 3622) and three latches that are coupled to theprocessing chamber (e.g., analogous to FIG. 36A, 3615), which latchesare not engaged with the build module shutter. FIG. 36D shows ahorizontal view of the build module shutter 3663 (e.g., analogous toportions FIG. 36B, 3631 and 3634), the processing chamber shutter 3664(e.g., analogous to FIG. 36B, 3632), a void within the structure of thebuild module shutter 3662 (e.g., analogous to FIG. 36B, 3642) and threelatches that are coupled to the processing chamber, which latches (e.g.,analogous to FIG. 36B, 3635) are engaged with the build module shutter.

In some embodiments, the material bed is of a cylindrical or cuboidshape. The material bed may translate. The translation may be vertical(e.g., FIG. 1, 112). The translation may be rotational. The rotation(e.g., FIG. 1, 127) may be about a vertical axis (e.g., FIG. 1, 105).The translation of the material bed may be facilitated by a translationof the substrate (e.g., FIG. 1, 109). The translation may be controlled(e.g., manually and/or automatically, e.g., using a controller). Thetranslation may be during at least a portion of the 3D printing. Forexample, the translation may be before using the energy beam (e.g., FIG.1, 101) to transform the pre-transformed material. For example, thetranslation may be before using the layer dispensing mechanism (e.g.,FIGS. 1, 116, 117, and 118). The rotation may be at any angle. Forexample, any value of the angle alpha described herein. The translationmay be prior to deposition of a layer of pre-transformed material.

In some embodiments, the build module, processing chamber, and/orenclosure comprises a gas equilibration channel The gas (e.g., pressureand/or content) may equilibrate between at least two of the buildmodule, processing chamber, and enclosure through the gas equilibrationchannel At least two of the build module, processing chamber, andenclosure may be fluidly connected through the gas equilibration channelIn some embodiments, the gas equilibration may be connected to theprocessing chamber. The gas equilibration channel may couple to a wallof a build module (e.g., as it docks). In some embodiments, the gasequilibration may be connected to the build module. The gasequilibration channel may couple to a wall of the processing chamber(e.g., as the build module docks). The gas equilibration channel maycomprise a valve and/or a gas opening port. The valve and/or a gasopening port may be disposed in the build module below, or above thebuilding platform. The valve and/or a gas opening port may be disposedin the build module at the horizontal plane of the build platform. Thevalve and/or a gas opening port may be disposed in the build moduleadjacent to the build platform. The valve and/or a gas opening port maybe disposed between the processing chamber and the build module. Forexample, the gas equilibration channel may be connected to theload-lock. The load lock can comprise a partition (e.g., a wall) thatdefines an internal volume of the load lock. The gas equilibrationchannel may couple to the build module (e.g., as the build moduledocks). For example, the gas equilibration channel may be connected tobuild module. The gas equilibration channel may couple to the load-lock(e.g., as the build module docks). FIG. 19 shows an example of a gasequilibration channel 1945 that allows a gas to pass through, whichchannel has an opening port (e.g., FIG. 19, 1954) disposed between theprocessing chamber having wall 1907 and the build module having wall1901. FIG. 19 shows an example of a valve 1950 that is disposed alongthe gas equilibration channel 1945. The valve may allow at least one gasto travel through. The gas may enter or exit through the valve. Forexample, the gas may enter or exit the build module, processing chamber,and/or enclosure through the valve. The gas equilibration channel shownin the example of FIG. 19, has an opening port 1952 connected to thebuild module, and an opening port 1954 connected to the processingchamber.

In some embodiments, the gas equilibration channel controls (e.g.,maintain) the atmospheric pressure and/or gas content within at leasttwo of the build module, processing chamber, and load-lock area. Controlmay include closing the opening port and/or valve. For example, controlmay include opening the opening port and/or valve to perform exchange ofatmospheres between the build module and/or the processing chamber.Control may include controlling the flow of gas. The flow of gas may befrom the build module to the processing chamber or vice-versa. The flowof gas may be from the build module to the load-lock area or vice-versa.Maintaining the gas pressure and/or content may include closing theopening port and/or valve. Maintaining may include inserting gas intothe build module, processing chamber, and/or load-lock area. Maintainingmay include inserting gas into the processing chamber. Maintaining mayinclude evacuating gas from the build module, load-lock area, and/orprocessing chamber. In some embodiments, the atmosphere of the buildmodule, processing chamber, and/or enclosure may be individuallycontrolled. In some embodiments, the atmosphere of at least two of thebuild module, processing chamber, load-lock area, and enclosure may beseparately controlled. In some embodiments, the atmosphere of at leasttwo of the build module, processing chamber, load-lock area, andenclosure may be controlled in concert (e.g., simultaneously). In someembodiments, the atmosphere of at least one of the build module,processing chamber, load-lock area, or enclosure may be controlled bycontrolling the atmosphere of at least one of the different buildmodule, processing chamber, load-lock area, or enclosure in anycombination or permutation. In some examples, the atmosphere in thebuild module is not controllable by controlling the atmosphere in theprocessing chamber and/or load-lock area.

In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises a load lock. Theload lock may be disposed between the processing chamber and the buildmodule. The load lock may be formed by engaging the build module withthe processing chamber (e.g., using the load-lock mechanism). The loadlock may be sealable. For example, the load lock may be sealed byengaging the build module with the processing chamber (e.g., directly,or indirectly). FIG. 3A shows an example of a load lock 314 that isformed when the build module 320 is engaged with the processing chamber310. An exchange of atmosphere may take place in the load lock byevacuating gas from the load lock (e.g., through channel 315 in FIG. 3A)and/or by inserting gas (e.g., through channel 315 in FIG. 3A). FIG. 4Ashows an example of a load lock 460 that is formed when the build module470 is engaged with the processing chamber 450. An exchange ofatmosphere may take place in the load lock by evacuating gas from theload lock (e.g., through channel 461 in FIG. 4A) and/or by inserting gas(e.g., through channel 461 in FIG. 4A). In some embodiments, the loadlock may comprise one or more gas opening ports. At times, the load lockmay comprise one or more gas transport channels. At times, the load lockmay comprise one or more valves. A gas transport channel may comprise avalve. The opening and/or closing of a first valve of the 3D printingsystem may or may not be coordinated with the opening and/or closing ofa second valve of the 3D printing system. The valve may be controlledautomatically (e.g., by a controller) and/or manually. The load lock maycomprise a gas entry opening port and a gas exit opening port. In someembodiments, a pressure below ambient pressure (e.g., of 1 atmosphere)is formed in the load lock. In some embodiments, a pressure exceedingambient pressure (e.g., of 1 atmosphere) is formed in the load lock. Attimes, during the exchange of load lock atmosphere, a pressure belowand/or above ambient pressure if formed in the load lock. At times, apressure equal or substantially equal to ambient pressure is maintained(e.g., automatically, and/or manually) in the load lock. The load lock,building module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure may comprise avalve. The valve may comprise a pressure relief, pressure release,pressure safety, safety relief, pilot-operated relief, low pressuresafety, vacuum pressure safety, low and vacuum pressure safety, pressurevacuum release, snap acting, or modulating valve. The valve may complywith the legal industry standards presiding the jurisdiction. The volumeof the load lock may be smaller than the volume within the build moduleand/or processing chamber. The total volume within the load lock may beat most about 0.1%, 0.5%, 1%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 50%, or 80% of the totalvolume encompassed by the build module and/or processing chamber. Thetotal volume within the load lock may be between any of theafore-mentioned percentage values (e.g., from about 0.1% to about 80%,from about 0.1% to about 5%, from about 5% to about 20%, from about 20%to about 50%, or from about 50% to about 80%). The percentage may bevolume per volume percentage.

In some embodiments, the atmosphere of the build module and/or theprocessing chamber is fluidly connected to the atmosphere of the loadlock. At times, conditioning the atmosphere of the load lock willcondition the atmosphere of the build module and/or the processingchamber that is fluidly connected to the load lock. The fluid connectionmay comprise gas flow. The fluid connection may be through a gaspermeable seal and/or through a channel (e.g., a pipe). The channel maybe a sealable channel (e.g., using a valve).

In some embodiments, the shutter of the build module engages with theshutter of the processing chamber. The engagement may be spatiallycontrolled. For example, when the shutter of the build module is withina certain gap distance from the processing chamber shutter, the buildmodule shutter engages with the processing chamber shutter. The gapdistance may trigger an engagement mechanism. The gap trigger may besufficient to allow sensing of at least one of the shutters. Theengagement mechanism may comprise magnetic, electrostatic, electric,hydraulic, pneumatic, or physical force. The physical force may comprisemanual force. FIG. 4A shows an example of a build module shutter 471that is attracted upwards toward the processing chamber shutter 451, anda processing chamber shutter 451 of processing chamber 450 that isattracted upwards toward the build module shutter 471. FIG. 4B shows anexample of a single unit formed from the processing chamber shutter 411of processing chamber 410 and the build module shutter 421, that istransferred away from the energy beam. In the single unit, theprocessing chamber shutter 411 and the build module shutter 421 are heldtogether by the engagement mechanism 413. Subsequent to the engagement,the single unit may transfer (e.g., relocate, or move) away from theenergy beam. For example, the engagement may trigger the transferring(e.g., relocating) of the build module shutter and the processingchamber shutter as a single unit.

In some embodiments, removal of the shutter (e.g., of the build moduleand/or processing chamber) depends on reaching a certain (e.g.,predetermined) level of at atmospheric characteristic comprising a gascontent (e.g., relative gas content), gas pressure, oxygen level,humidity, argon level, or nitrogen level. For example, the certain levelmay be an equilibrium between an atmospheric characteristic in the buildchamber and that atmospheric characteristic in the processing chamber.

In some embodiments, the 3D printing process initiates after merging ofthe build module with the processing chamber. At the beginning of the 3Dprinting process, the build platform may be at an elevated position(e.g., FIG. 3B, 371). At the end of the 3D printing process, the buildplatform may be at a vertically reduced position (e.g., FIG. 2, 213).The building module may translate between three positions during a 3Dprinting run. The build module may enter the enclosure from a positionaway from the engagement position with the processing chamber (e.g.,FIG. 2, 201). The build module may then advance toward (e.g., FIGS. 2,222 and 224) the processing chamber (e.g., FIG. 2, 202), and engage withthe processing chamber (e.g., as described herein, for example, in FIG.3B). The layer dispensing mechanism and energy beam will translate andform the 3D object within the material bed (e.g., as described herein),while the platform gradually lowers its vertical position. Once the 3Dobject printing is complete (e.g., FIG. 2, 214), the build module maydisengage from the processing chamber and translate (e.g., FIG. 2, 223)away from the processing chamber engagement position (e.g., FIG. 2,203). Disengagement of the build module from the processing chamber mayinclude closing the processing chamber with its shutter, closing thebuild module with its shutter, or both closing the processing chambershutter and closing the build module shutter. Disengagement of the buildmodule from the processing chamber may include maintaining theprocessing chamber atmosphere to be separate from the enclosureatmosphere, maintaining the build module atmosphere to be separate fromthe enclosure atmosphere, or maintaining both the processing chamberatmosphere and the build atmosphere separate from the enclosureatmosphere. Disengagement of the build module from the processingchamber may include maintaining the processing chamber atmosphere to beseparate from the ambient atmosphere, maintaining the build moduleatmosphere to be separate from the ambient atmosphere, or maintainingboth the processing chamber atmosphere and the build atmosphere separatefrom the ambient atmosphere. The building platform that is disposedwithin the build module before engagement with the processing chamber,may be at its top most position, bottom most position, or anywherebetween its top most position and bottom most position within the buildmodule.

In some embodiments, the usage of sealable build modules, processingchamber, and/or unpacking chamber allows a small degree of operatorintervention, low degree of operator exposure to the pre-transformedmaterial, and/or low down time of the 3D printer. The 3D printing systemmay operate most of the time without an intermission. The 3D printingsystem may be utilized for 3D printing most of the time. Most of thetime may be at least about 50%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or99% of the time. Most of the time may be between any of theafore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 50% to about 99%, from about80% to about 99%, from about 90% to about 99%, or from about 95% toabout 99%) of the time. The entire time includes the time during whichthe 3D printing system prints a 3D object, and time during which it doesnot print a 3D object. Most of the time may include operation duringseven days a week and/or 24 hours during a day.

In some embodiments, the 3D printing system requires operation ofmaximum a single standard daily work shift. The 3D printing system mayrequire operation by a human operator working at most of about 8 hours(h), 7 h, 6 h, 5 h, 4 h, 3 h, 2 h, 1 h, or 0.5 h a day. The 3D printingsystem may require operation by a human operator working between any ofthe afore-mentioned time frames (e.g., from about 8 h to about 0.5 h,from about 8 h to about 4 h, from about 6 h to about 3 h, from about 3 hto about 0.5 h, or from about 2 h to about 0.5 h a day).

In some embodiments, the 3D printing system requires operation ofmaximum a single standard work week shift. The 3D printing system mayrequire operation by a human operator working at most of about 50 h, 40h, 30 h, 20 h, 10 h, 5 h, or 1 h a week. The 3D printing system mayrequire operation by a human operator working between any of theafore-mentioned time frames (e.g., from about 40 h to about 1 h, fromabout 40 h to about 20 h, from about 30 h to about 10 h, from about 20 hto about 1 h, or from about 10 h to about 1 h a week). A single operatormay support during his daily and/or weekly shift at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 3D printers (i.e., 3D printing systems).

In some embodiments, the enclosure and/or processing chamber of the 3Dprinting system is opened to the ambient environment sparingly. In someembodiments, the enclosure and/or processing chamber of the 3D printingsystem may be opened by an operator (e.g., human) sparingly. Sparingopening may be at most once in at most every 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 weeks. Theweeks may comprise weeks of standard operation of the 3D printer.

In some embodiments, the 3D printer has a capacity of 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5full prints in terms of pre-transformed material (e.g., powder)reservoir capacity. The 3D printer may have the capacity to print aplurality of 3D objects in parallel. For example, the 3D printer may beable to print at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 3D objects inparallel.

In some embodiments, the printed 3D object is retrieved soon afterterminating the last transformation operation of at least a portion ofthe material bed. Soon after terminating may be at most about 1 day, 12hours, 6 hours, 3 hours, 2 hours, 1 hour, 30 minutes, 15 minutes, 5minutes, 240 seconds (sec), 220 sec, 200 sec, 180 sec, 160 sec, 140 sec,120 sec, 100 sec, 80 sec, 60 sec, 40 sec, 20 sec, 10 sec, 9 sec, 8 sec,7 sec, 6 sec, 5 sec, 4 sec, 3 sec, 2 sec, or 1 sec. Soon afterterminating may be between any of the afore-mentioned time values (e.g.,from about is to about 1 day, from about is to about 1 hour, from about30 minutes to about 1 day, or from about 20 s to about 240 s).

In some embodiments, the 3D printer has a capacity of 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5full prints before requiring human intervention. Human intervention maybe required for refilling the pre-transformed (e.g., powder) material,unloading the build modules, unpacking the 3D object, or any combinationthereof. The 3D printer operator may condition the 3D printer at anytime during operation of the 3D printing system (e.g., during the 3Dprinting process). Conditioning of the 3D printer may comprise refillingthe pre-transformed material that is used by the 3D printer, replacinggas source, or replacing filters. The conditioning may be with orwithout interrupting the 3D printing system. For example, refilling andunloading from the 3D printer can be done at any time during the 3Dprinting process without interrupting the 3D printing process.Conditioning may comprise refreshing the 3D printer and/or thepre-transformed (e.g., recycled) material. Conditioning may compriseavoiding reactions (e.g., oxidation) of the material (e.g., powder) withagents (e.g., water and/or oxygen). For example, a material (e.g.,liquid, or particulate material) may have chromium that oxidizes andforms chromium oxide. The oxidized material may have a high vaporpressure (e.g., low evaporation temperature). To avoid reactions, thematerial may be conditioned. Conditioning may comprise removal ofreactive species (e.g., comprising oxygen and/or water). Types ofconditioning may include heating the material (e.g., before recycling oruse), irradiating the material (e.g., ablation), flushing the materialwith an inert gas (e.g., argon). The flushing may be done in an inertatmosphere (e.g., within the processing chamber). The flushing may bedone in an atmosphere that is (e.g., substantially) non-reactive withthe material (e.g., liquid, or particulate material).

In some embodiments, the 3D printer comprises at least one filter. Thefilter may be a ventilation filter. The ventilation filter may capturefine powder from the 3D printing system. The filter may comprise a paperfilter such as a high-efficiency particulate arrestance (HEPA) filter(a.k.a., high-efficiency particulate arresting or high-efficiencyparticulate air filter). The ventilation filter may capture spatter. Thespatter may result from the 3D printing process. The ventilator maydirect the spatter in a desired direction (e.g., by using positive ornegative gas pressure). For example, the ventilator may use vacuum. Forexample, the ventilator may use gas blow.

At times, there is a time lapse (e.g., time delay) between the end ofprinting in a first material bed, and the beginning of printing in asecond material bed. The time lapse between the end of printing in afirst material bed, and the beginning of printing in a second materialbed may be at most about 60 minutes (min), 40 min, 30 min, 20 min, 15min, 10 min, or 5 min. The time lapse between the end of printing in afirst material bed, and the beginning of printing in a second materialbed may be between any of the afore-mentioned times (e.g., from about 60min to abo 5 min, from about 60 min to about 30 min, from about 30 minto about 5 min, from about 20 min to about 5 min, from about 20 min toabout 10 min, or from about 15 min to about 5 min). The speed duringwhich the 3D printing process proceeds is disclosed in PatentApplication serial number PCT/US15/36802 that is incorporated herein inits entirety.

In some embodiments, the 3D object is removed from the material bedafter the completion of the 3D printing process. For example, the 3Dobject may be removed from the material bed when the transformedmaterial that formed the 3D object hardens. For example, the 3D objectmay be removed from the material bed when the transformed material thatformed the 3D object is no longer susceptible to deformation understandard handling operation (e.g., human and/or machine handling).

In some embodiments, the 3D object is removed from the build moduleinside or outside of the 3D printer (e.g., 3D printer enclosure, e.g.,FIG. 2, 225). For example, the 3D object that is disposed within thematerial bed may be removed outside of the enclosure (e.g., by beingenclosed in the build module, e.g., FIG. 2, 203). The 3D object may beremoved from the build module to an unpacking station (also referred toherein as “unpacking system”). The unpacking station may be within the3D printer enclosure, or outside of the 3D printer enclosure. Theenclosure of the unpacking station may be different (e.g., separate)from the 3D printer enclosure. FIG. 17 shows an example of an unpackingstation comprising an enclosure 1710, an unpacking chamber 1711, andbuild modules (e.g., FIGS. 17, 1701, 1702, and 1703) disposed at variouspositions within the unpacking station enclosure. In some embodiments,the unpacking station enclosure 1710 is absent. The build modules maytransition between the various positions (e.g., near numbers FIGS. 17,1701, 1702, and 1703) according to arrows 1721, 1722, 1723, and 1724respectively. The separate enclosure (e.g., 1710), unpacking station(e.g., FIG. 17, 1711), and/or build module (e.g., FIG. 17, 1701, 1702,and/or 1703) may comprise an ambient or a controlled atmosphere. Theatmosphere in the separate (e.g., unpacking station) enclosure may beidentical, substantially identical, or different from the atmosphere inthe build module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure housing theprocessing chamber (i.e., 3D printer enclosure). The unpacking chambermay comprise a controlled atmosphere. The atmosphere of the unpackingchamber (e.g., FIG. 17, 1711) may be controlled separately or togetherwith the atmosphere of the unpacking station enclosure (e.g., FIG. 17,1710). The unpacking chamber may comprise a shutter (e.g., similar tothe shutter of the processing chamber). The build modules may dock tothe unpacking chamber in a manner similar to the way the build modulesdock to the processing chamber (e.g., through a load lock, conditioningthe load lock atmosphere to 3D printing atmosphere, and removing therespective shutters; e.g., FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A, or 4B). The docking may befrom any direction (e.g., any of the six spatial directions). Thedirection may comprise a Cartesian direction. The direction may comprisea cardinal direction. The direction may be horizontal or vertical. Thedirection may be lateral. The material bed comprising the 3D object maybe separated from an operator (e.g., human). The unpacking operation maytake place without contact of the operator with the pre-transformedmaterial (e.g., remainder). The unpacking operation may take placewithout contact of the pre-transformed material (e.g., remainder) withthe ambient atmosphere. The unpacking station may be sealed prior toengagement, or after an engagement with the build module (e.g., using anunpacking station shutter), for example, to deter atmospheric exchangebetween the external environment and the interior of the unpackingstation. The build module may be sealed prior to engagement of the buildmodule with the unpacking station, for example, to deter atmosphericexchange between the external environment and the interior of theunpacking station. The build module may be sealed prior to disengagementof the build module from the unpacking station (e.g., using a load lockshutter), for example, to deter atmospheric exchange between theexternal environment and the interior of the unpacking station. To deteratmospheric exchange between the external environment and the interiorof the unpacking station may comprise to deter infiltration of one ormore reactive agents from the ambient atmosphere. The reactive agent maycomprise humidity and/or oxidizing agent (e.g., oxygen). The separateenclosure (e.g., 1710), unpacking station (e.g., 1711), and/or buildmodule (e.g., 1701, 1702, and/or 1703) may comprise an atmosphere havinga pressure greater than the ambient pressure. Greater pressure may be apressure of at least about 0.2 pounds per square inch (PSI), 0.25 PSI,0.3 PSI, 0.35 PSI, 0.4 PSI, 0.45 PSI, 0.5 PSI, 0.8 PSI, 1.0 PSI, 1.5PSI, or 2.0 PSI above ambient pressure (e.g., of 14.7 PSI). The ambientpressure may be constant or fluctuating. Greater pressure may be betweenany of the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 0.2 PSI to about 2.0PSI, from about 0.3 PSA to about 1.5 PSI, or from about 0.4 PSI to about1.0 PSI above ambient pressure). The 3D object in the build module maybe kept at an atmosphere that is different from the external (e.g.,ambient) atmosphere from prior to entry to the unpacking station (e.g.,1701), through it unpacking (e.g., 1702), to its exit from the unpackingstation (e.g., 1703).

In some embodiments, the atmosphere is exchanged in an enclosure. Forexample, the atmosphere is exchanged before the pre-transformed materialis introduced into that enclosure (e.g., to reduce possibility of areaction of the pre-transformed material with a reactive agent, and/orto allow recycling of the pre-transformed material). For example, theatmosphere is exchanged in an enclosure before the 3D printing isconducted in that enclosure (e.g., to reduce possibility of a reactionof the pre-transformed material or of a by-product, with a reactiveagent). The by-product may comprise evaporated transformed material, orgas borne pre-transformed material. The by-product may comprise soot.The reactive agent may comprise oxygen or humidity. The atmosphericexchange may comprise sucking the atmosphere or purging the atmosphere.The suction or purging may utilize a pump (e.g., pressure or vacuumpump). The atmospheric exchange (e.g., purging) may comprise utilizing apressurized gas source. The pressurized gas source may comprise apressurized gas container (e.g., a gas-cylinder). The pressurized gassource may comprise a build module that encloses pressurized atmospherethat has a pressure greater than the pressure in the processing chamber.The pressurized build module may engage with a chamber. The chamber maycomprise the processing chamber or the unpacking station. The engagementof the build module with the chamber may comprise merging theiratmospheres to have a combined atmosphere pressure that is above ambientpressure. The pressurized gas source may comprise a build module thatencloses pressurized atmosphere that has a pressure greater than thepressure in the chamber (e.g., unpacking station or processing chamber).The combined atmosphere may have a pressure greater than the ambientpressure by at least about 0.2 pounds per square inch (PSI), 0.25 PSI,0.3 PSI, 0.35 PSI, 0.4 PSI, 0.45 PSI, 0.5 PSI, 0.8 PSI, 1.0 PSI, 1.5PSI, or 2.0 PSI above ambient pressure (e.g., of 14.7 PSI). The combinedatmosphere may have a pressure greater than the ambient pressure by anyvalue between any of the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 0.2PSI to about 2.0 PSI, from about 0.3 PSA to about 1.5 PSI, or from about0.4 PSI to about 1.0 PSI above ambient pressure). The build module,processing chamber, and/or unpacking station may comprise an evacuatorof the reactive-agent (e.g., oxygen). The evacuator can be passive oractive. The passive evacuator may comprise a scavenger for thereactive-agent (e.g., a desiccating agent). The passive evacuator maycomprise a material that (e.g., spontaneously) absorbs and/or reactswith the reactive agent (e.g., to scavenge it from the atmosphere). Atleast one controller may be coupled to the build module, processingchamber, and/or unpacking station and may control the amount of thereactive agent (e.g., to be below a certain threshold value).

In some embodiments, the build module is designed to maintain the 3Dobject within an atmosphere suitable for transport. The build module cancomprise a boundary (e.g., comprising one or more walls) that define aninternal volume that is configured to store the 3D object in an internalatmosphere. During storage, the build module may be resting (e.g., keptin one location), or be in transit (e.g., from one location to another).The build module may be stored in ambient temperature (e.g., roomtemperature). The build module can comprise an opening within theboundary (e.g., within at least one of the walls) and that is designedto couple with the processing chamber and having a shape and sizesuitable for passing the 3D object therethrough. The build module cancomprise the build module shutter that is configured to close theopening and form a seal between the internal atmosphere maintainedwithin the build module and an ambient atmosphere outside of the buildmodule. The seal and/or material of the build module may deteratmospheric exchange between the internal volume of the build module andthe ambient atmosphere. The internal atmosphere may comprise a pressuredifferent (e.g., lower or higher) than the one in the ambient pressure.For example, the internal atmosphere may comprise a pressure aboveambient pressure. The internal volume of the build module may comprise agas that is non-reactive with the pre-transformed material (e.g.,before, after, and/or during the printing). The build module maycomprise a gas that is non-reactive with a remainder of startingmaterial that did not form the 3D object. The build module internalatmosphere can be (a) above ambient pressure, (b) inert, (c) differentfrom the ambient atmosphere, (d) non-reactive with the pre-transformedmaterial, remainder, and/or one or more 3D objects during the pluralityof 3D printing cycles, (e) comprise a reactive agent below a thresholdvalue, or (f) any combination thereof. The 3D object, remainder (e.g.,including the pre-transformed material), and/or a new pre-transformedmaterial may be stored in the build module for a period e. For example,contents within the internal volume of the build module can be stored inany of atmospheres (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), or (f) supra supra for aperiod between processing operations, such as after forming the 3Dobject and before removing the 3D object from the build module (e.g.,when the build module is coupled to the unpacking station). In somecases, the period may be at least about 0.5 day, 1 day, 2 days, 3 days,4 days, 5 days, 6 days, 7 days, or 10 days. The period may be any periodbetween the afore-mentioned periods (e.g., from about 0.5 day to about10 days, from about 0.5 day to about 4 days, or from about 2 days toabout 7 days). The period may be limited by the reduction rate of thepressure in the build module, and/or the leakage rate of a relativeagent (e.g., comprising oxygen or humidity) in the ambient environmentinto the build module. The amount of reactive species (e.g., reactiveagent) may be controlled. The control may be to maintain a level below athreshold value. The threshold value may correspond to a detectabledegree of a reaction product of the reactive agent with thepre-transformed material (or remainder) that is detectable. Thethreshold value may correspond to a detectable degree of a reactionproduct of the reactive agent with the pre-transformed material (orremainder) that causes at least one detectable defect in the materialproperties and/or structural properties of the pre-transformed material(or remainder). The reaction product may be generated on the surface ofthe pre-transformed material (e.g., on the surface of the particles ofthe particulate material). The reaction may occur following anengagement of the build module with the processing chamber. The reactionmay occur during the release of the internal atmosphere of the buildchamber into the processing chamber (e.g., followed by the 3D printing).The reaction may occur during the 3D printing. The reaction may causedefects in the material properties (e.g., cracking) and/or structuralproperties (e.g., warping) of the 3D object (e.g., as described herein).The threshold may correspond to the threshold of the depleted or reducedlevel of gas disclosed herein. The level of the depleted or reducedlevel gas may correspond to the level of reactive agent. The depleted orreduced level gas may comprise oxygen or water. The threshold value maycorrespond to the reactive agent in the internal volume of the buildmodule. The reactive agent may comprise water (e.g., humidity) oroxygen. The threshold value of oxygen may be at most about 5 ppm, 10ppm, 50 ppm, 100 ppm, 150 ppm, 300 ppm, or 500 ppm. The threshold valueof oxygen may be between any of the afore-mentioned values (e.g., fromabout 5 ppm to about 500 ppm, from about 5 ppm to about 300 ppm, or fromabout 5 ppm to about 100 ppm). The build module may be configured toaccommodate at least about 5 liters, 15 liters, 25 liters, or 30 litersof starting material. The platform may be configured to support at leastabout 5 liters, 15 liters, 25 liters, or 30 liters of starting material.The build module (in its closed configuration) may be configured topermit accumulation (in the internal volume of the build module) ofwater weight per liter of starting material for a prolonged period. Thebuild module in its closed state can comprise a closed (e.g., sealed)shutter (e.g., lid). For example, the build module (in its closedconfiguration) may be configured to permit accumulation (in the internalvolume of the build module) of water weight of at most about 10micrograms (μgr), 50 μgr, 100 μgr, 500 μgr, or 1000 μgr, per liter ofstarting material (e.g., powder), for a period of at least about 1 days,2 days, 3 days, 5 days or 7 days. The build module in a closed state maybe configured to permit accumulation of water weight between any of theaforementioned values (e.g., from about 10 μgr to about 11000 gr, fromabout 10 μgr to about 500 μgr, or from about 100 μgr to about 11000μgr), per liter of starting material, for a period of at least about 1days, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days or 7 days. The build module (in its closedconfiguration) may be configured to limit an ingress (e.g., leakage orflow) of water into the internal volume of the build module. Forexample, the water may penetrate to the internal volume of the buildmodule from an external water source (e.g., that contacts the buildmodule (e.g., sealing area, seal material, build module shutter materialand/or build module boundary material). For example, the water maypenetrate to the internal volume of the build module from the ambientenvironment. The ingress of water into the internal volume of the buildmodule may be at a rate of at most about 10 micrograms per day (μgr/d),50 μgr/d, 100 μgr/d, 500 μgr/d, or 1000 μgr/d. The ingress of water intothe internal volume of the build module may be at a rate between any ofthe afore-mentioned rates (e.g., from about 10 μgr/d, to about 1000μgr/d, from about 10 μgr/d, to about 500 μgr/d, or from about 10 μgr/dto about 100 μgr/d). Maintaining a reduced level of reactive agent(e.g., such as by keeping a positive pressure of inert gas in the buildmodule for a prolonged amount of time) can allow the contents of thebuild module to be kept in any of the atmospheres (a), (b), (c), (d),(e), or (f) supra, for example, with minimal (e.g., without) exposure toan external environment (e.g., ambient air). In some case, the buildmodule is transported using a transit system, which may comprisemovement by car, train, boat, or aircraft. The build module can berobotically and/or manually transported. The transportation may comprisetransit between cities, states, countries, continents, or globalhemispheres. The build module may comprise and/or may be operativelycoupled to at least one sensor for detecting certain qualities of theinternal atmosphere within the internal volume (e.g., pressure,temperature, types of reactive agent, and/or amounts of reactive agent).The build module may comprise at least one controller that controls(e.g., regulates, maintains, and/or modulates) (i) a level of thereactive agent in the build module, (ii) a pressure level in the buildmodule, (iii) a temperature in the build module, or (iv) any combinationthereof. The build module may be configured to allow cooling or heatingof the internal volume. A controller may control a temperaturealteration of the build module (e.g., internal volume thereof), e.g., toreach a threshold value, e.g., at a certain rate. The rate may bepredetermined. The rate may comprise a temperature alteration function(e.g., linear or non-linear). For example, the build module (e.g., itsinternal volume) may be cooled to a handling temperature. For example,the build module may be heated to a temperature at which water pats fromthe starting material. For example, the build module may be heated to apyrolytic temperature. The sensor and controller may be separate unitsor part of a single detector-controller unit. The build module maycomprise at least one opening port that is configured to allow gas topass to and/or from the internal volume. The opening port can beoperatively coupled to a valve, a secondary pressurized gas source(e.g., gas cylinder or valve), or any combination thereof. The buildmodule can comprise mechanisms and/or (e.g., structural) features thatfacilitate engagement with the processing chamber (e.g., through a loadlock). The build module can comprise mechanisms and/or (e.g.,structural) features that facilitate 3D printing (e.g., a verticallytranslatable platform). For example, the build module can comprise alifting mechanism (e.g., an actuator configured to vertically translatethe platform) that is configured to move the 3D object within theinternal volume. The lifting mechanism can be configured to move the 3Dobject in accordance with a vertical axis, as described herein.

In some embodiments, the unpacking station can engage with a pluralityof build modules (e.g., simultaneously). The plurality of build modulesmay comprise at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 build modules. The unpackingstation may comprise a plurality of reversibly closable openings (e.g.,each of which comprises a reversibly removable shutter or lid). Aplurality of reversibly closable build modules (e.g., each of whichcomprises a reversibly removable shutter or lid) may engage with,disengage with the unpacking station simultaneously or sequentially. Aplurality of reversibly closable build may dock to the unpacking stationat a given time. FIG. 37 shows an example of an unpacking station 3711onto which two build modules 3702 and 3703 dock. The docking can bedirectly or indirectly (e.g., through a load lock). At least one of theplurality of build modules (e.g., FIG. 37, 3702) can dock directly tothe unpacking station. At least one of the plurality of build modules(e.g., FIG. 37, 3703) can dock indirectly to the unpacking station(e.g., through a load lock FIG. 37, 3726). The unpacking station maycomprise a plurality of opening to facilitate simultaneous engagement ofa plurality of build modules onto the unpacking station. The pluralityof openings may comprise at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 openings. When thebuild module docks onto the unpacking station, the build module openingmay be sealed by a load lock shutter (lid), and the correspondingunpacking station opening may be sealed by an unpacking station shutter.The gaseous volume that is entrapped between the build module shutterand the processing chamber shutter upon their mutual engagement, may bepurged, evacuated, and/or exchanged. The gaseous volume may be part of aload lock mechanism. After engagement of the build module with theunpacking station (e.g., and exchange of the entrapped gas between theirshutters), the build module shutter and the respective unpacking stationshutter may be removed to allow merging of the build module atmospherewith the unpacking station atmosphere (e.g., FIG. 37, 3716), travel ofthe 3D object between the unpacking station and the unpacking station,and/or travel of the base (e.g., FIG. 37, 3727) between the unpackingstation and the build module.

The removal (e.g., by translation) of the build module shutter and theunpacking station shutter may be in the same direction or in differentdirections. The translation may be to any direction (e.g., any of thesix spatial directions). The direction may comprise a Cartesiandirection. The direction may comprise a cardinal direction. Thedirection may be horizontal or vertical. The direction may be lateral.In some examples, the shutters may be removed (e.g., from a positionwhere they shut the opening) separately. FIG. 37 shows an example ofunpacking a remainder 3728 of a material bed that was not transformed toform the 3D object, from a 3D object 3729. FIG. 37 shows an example inwhich a sealed first build module 3701 comprising a formed 3D object ina material bed approaches 3721 from a 3D printer comprising a processingchamber) to an unpacking station 3711; the first build module docks(e.g., 3702 onto the unpacking station and an actuator translates the 3Dobject onto the unpacking station where the remainder is separated fromthe 3D object; the 3D object is then translated into a second buildmodule 3703 that docks onto the unpacking station; which second buildmodule subsequently separates from the unpacking station into adestination 3724. Before separation of the second build module from theunpacking station, the second build module opening may be shut (e.g., bya shutter), and/or the respective unpacking station opening may be shut(e.g., by a shutter). Such closure of these two openings prior to theirdisengagement may ensure that upon disengagement of the second buildmodule from the unpacking station, the remainder (e.g., comprising thepre-transformed material) and/or 3D object remain separate from theambient atmosphere. Upon and/or after engagement of the build module andthe unpacking station: (a) the build module shutter may be translatedfrom the build module opening which the shutter reversibly closes,and/or (b) the unpacking station shutter may be translated from theunpacking station opening which the shutter reversibly closes. Thetranslation of the two shutters may be simultaneous or sequential. Thetranslation of the two shutters may be automatic or manual. Thetranslation of the two shutters may be to the same or do differentdirections. The two shutters may engage with each other before and/orduring the translation. The engagement may be using a mechanismcomprising actuator, lever, shaft, clipper, or a suction cup. Theengagement may include using a power generator that generateselectrostatic, magnetic, hydraulic, or pneumatic force. The engagementmay include using manual force and/or a robotic arm.

In some embodiments, the 3D object exchanges a base during the unpackingprocess in the unpacking station. In some embodiments, the 3D object mayexchange a plurality of bases during unpacking (e.g., removal of theremainder). In some embodiments, plurality of bases may be present orcoupled to an unpacking station (e.g., simultaneously). The plurality ofbases may comprise at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 bases. For example, the 3Dobject may be disposed adjacent to a first base (e.g., FIG. 37, 3727)that is in turn disposed in a first build module (e.g., FIG. 37, 3702).The 3D object and the first base may be separated from each other in theunpacking station, (e.g., before, during, and/or after the removal ofthe remainder). The 3D object may be disposed on a second base after itsseparation from the first base (e.g., in the unpacking station or in thesecond build module). The second build module may comprise the secondbase with the 3D object upon separation from the unpacking station(e.g., FIG. 37, 3724). At least one of the two bases (e.g., the firstbase) may be manipulated (e.g., removed, or displaced) using anactuator. For example, at least one of the two bases may be manipulatedusing a robotic arm and/or manually. For example, at least one of thetwo bases may be manipulated using a pick-and-place mechanism (e.g.,comprising a shaft and/or an actuator). At least two of the plurality ofbases (e.g., the first and the second base) may be manipulated by thesame mechanism. At least two of the plurality of bases may bemanipulated by their own separate respective mechanism.

In some embodiments, when a build module is docked in the unpackingchamber, and the build module shutter and the unpacking chamber shutterare opened (e.g., removed), the vertical translation mechanism (e.g.,elevator) may elevate the 3D object with its respective material bedinto the unpacking chamber. The unpacking chamber atmosphere may becontrolled. The 3D object (e.g., FIG. 18C, 1832) may be removed from theremainder of the material bed that did not transform to form the 3Dobject (e.g., FIG. 18C, 1833). The removal may be in a controlled (e.g.,inert) atmosphere. The removal may be using a human or a machine. Theremoval may be fully automatic, partially automatic, or manual. Theunpacking FIGS. 18A-18C show examples of 3D object removal using manualintervention (e.g., FIG. 18A), or mechanical intervention (e.g., FIGS.18B or 18C). The manual intervention may use a glove box. The machine(e.g., FIG. 18B, 1823) may be situated in the unpacking chamber (e.g.,FIG. 18B, 1822). The machine (e.g., FIG. 18C, 1834) may be situated inthe unpacking enclosure (e.g., FIG. 18C, 1836). The machine (e.g., FIG.18C, 1834) may be situated outside of the unpacking chamber (e.g., FIG.18C, 1835). The machine may be situated outside of the unpackingenclosure. At least one side of the unpacking chamber (e.g., FIG. 18A,1812) may merge with at least one respective side of the unpackingstation enclosure (e.g., FIG. 18A, 1811). At times, at least one side ofthe unpacking chamber (e.g., FIG. 18B, 1822) may not merge with at leastone respective side of the unpacking station enclosure (e.g., FIG. 18B,1821). The mechanical intervention may comprise a motor, a tweezer, ahook, a swivel axis, a joint, a crane, or a spring. The mechanicalintervention device may comprise a robot. The mechanical interventiondevice may be controlled by a controller (e.g., locally, or remotely).The remote control may use a remote input device. The remote control mayuse a remote console device (e.g., a joystick). The controller may use agaming console device. The controller may use a home video game console,handheld game console, microconsole, a dedicated console, or anycombination thereof. The local controller may be directly connected tothe unpacking station (e.g., using one or more wires), or through alocal network (e.g., as disclosed herein). The local controller may bestationary or mobile. The remote controller may connect to the unpackingstation through a network that is not local. The remote controller maybe stationary or mobile. The unpacking station (e.g., unpacking chamber)may comprise its own controller. The controller may control (e.g.,direct, monitor, and/or regulate) one or more apparatuses in theunpacking process, unpacking temperature, unpacking atmosphere. Theapparatuses in the unpacking process may comprise a shutter, mechanicalintervention device, pre-transformed material removal device (e.g.,powder removal device).

The build module may comprise a first atmosphere, the processing chambermay comprise a second atmosphere, and the unpacking station may comprisea third atmosphere. At least two of the first, second, and thirdatmosphere may be detectibly the same. At least two of the first,second, and third atmosphere may differ. Differ may be in material(e.g., gaseous) composition and/or pressure. For example, the pressurein the build module may be higher than in the processing chamber (e.g.,before their mutual engagement). For example, the pressure in the buildmodule may be higher than in the unpacking station (e.g., before theirmutual engagement). For example, the pressure in the build module may belower than in the unpacking station (e.g., before their mutualengagement). For example, the pressure in the build module may be lowerthan in the processing chamber (e.g., before their mutual engagement).At least two of the first, second, and third atmosphere (e.g., all threeatmospheres) may have a pressure above ambient pressure. The pressureabove ambient pressure may deter reactive agents from the ambientatmosphere to penetrate into an enclosure having a positive atmosphericpressure (e.g., whether it is a build module, unpacking station, and/orprocessing chamber).

In some embodiments, the usage of reversibly closable (e.g., sealable)build modules may facilitate separation of the 3D object and/or anyremainder of pre-transformed material that was not used to form the 3Dobject, from contacting at least one reactive agent in the ambientatmosphere. In some embodiments, the usage of reversibly closable (e.g.,sealable) build modules may facilitate separation of a pre-transformedmaterial from contacting at least one reactive agent in the ambientatmosphere.

In some embodiments, material metrology of the 3D object is performed.The material metrology may be performed before, after, and/or duringunpacking of the 3D object from the material bed. At times, the materialmetrology may be performed before, after, and/or during the 3D printing.Material metrology may comprise measuring material morphology, particlesize distribution, chemical composition, or material volumes. Thematerial may be sieved before recycling and/or 3D printing. Sieving maycomprise passing a (e.g., liquid or particulate) material through asieve. Sieving may comprise gas classifying the (e.g., liquid orparticulate) material. Gas classifying may comprise air-classifying.FIG. 23 illustrates an example gas classifying mechanism. Gasclassifying may include transporting a material (e.g., particulatematerial) through a channel (e.g., FIG. 23, 2330). A first set of gasflow carrying particulate material of various types (e.g., crosssections, or weights) may flow horizontally from a first horizontal sideof the channel (e.g., FIG. 23, 2348) to a second horizontal side of thechannel (e.g., FIG. 23, 2335). A second set of gas flow may flowvertically from a first vertical side of the channel (e.g., FIG. 23,2328) to a second vertical side (e.g., FIG. 23, 2329). The secondvertical side (e.g., FIG. 23, 2329) of the channel may comprise materialcollectors (e.g., bins, FIG. 23, 2345). As the particulate materialflows from the first horizontal direction to the second horizontaldirection, the particulate material interacts with the vertical flowset, and gets deflected from their horizontal flow course to a verticalflow course (e.g., FIG. 23, 2340). The particulate material may travel(e.g., FIG. 23, 2350) to the material collectors, depending on theirsize and/or weight, such that the lighter and smaller particles collectin the first collator (e.g., FIG. 23, 2341), and the heaviest andlargest particles collect at the last collector (e.g., FIG. 23, 2345).FIG. 23 shows an example of a particle collector set, wherein thelightest shaded collector collects smaller and lighter particles, thanthe darker shaded collector. Blowing of gas (e.g., air) may allow theclassification of the particulate material according to the size and/orweight. The material may be conditioned before use (e.g., re-use) withinthe enclosure. The material may be conditioned before, or afterrecycling.

In some embodiments, the pre-transformed material is removed from the 3Dobject (e.g., within the unpacking chamber) by suction (e.g., vacuum),gas blow, mechanical removal, magnetic removal, or electrostatic removalManners of pre-transformed material removal are disclosed, for example,in Patent Application serial number PCT/US15/36802, or in ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 62/317,070 that are incorporated herein byreference in their entirety. The pre-transformed material may compriseshaking the pre-transformed material (e.g., powder) from the 3D object.The shaking may comprise vibrating. Vibrating may comprise using amotor. Vibrating may comprise using a vibrator or a sonicator. Thevibration may comprise ultrasound waves, sound waves, or mechanicalforce. For example, the 3D object may be disposed on a scaffold thatvibrates. The ultrasonic waves may travel through the atmosphere of theunpacking chamber. The ultrasonic waves may travel through the materialbed disposed in the unpacking chamber. The scaffold may be tilted at anangle that allows the pre-transformed material to separate from the 3Dobject. The scaffold may be rotated in a way that allows thepre-transformed material to separate from the 3D object (e.g., acentrifugal rotation). The scaffold may comprise a rough surface thatcan hold the 3D object (e.g., using friction). The scaffold may comprisehinges that prevent slippage of the 3D object (e.g., during thevibrating operation). The scaffold may comprise one or more holes. Thescaffold may comprise a mesh. The one or more holes or mesh may allowthe pre-transformed material to pass through, and prevent the 3D objectfrom passing through (e.g., such that the 3D object is held on anopposite side of the mesh from the removed pre-transformed material).FIG. 18D, 1840 shows an example of a top view of a scaffold.

In some embodiments, the removal of the pre-transformed materialcomprises using a modular material removal mechanism. The materialremoval mechanism may be similar to the one used for leveling theexposed surface of the material bed. The material removal mechanism maybe interchangeable between the 3D printing enclosure and the unpackingenclosure. For example, the material removal mechanism may beinterchangeable between the processing chamber and the unpackingchamber. For example, the material removal mechanism may be used for atleast one of leveling an exposed surface of a material bed, cleaning theprocessing chamber (e.g., from excess pre-transformed material), andremoving the pre-transformed material from the 3D object. The materialremoval mechanism may remove the pre-transformed material and sieve it.

In some embodiments, the removed pre-transformed material (e.g., theremainder) is conditioned to be used in the 3D printing process. Theremainder may be recycled and used in the 3D printing process. Theunpacking station may further comprise a unit that allows conditioningof the pre-transformed material that was removed from the 3D object.Conditioning may comprise sieving of the pre-transformed material thatwas removed from the 3D object. Conditioning may be to allow recyclingof the pre-transformed material and usage in a 3D printing cycle.Conditioning may be chemical conditioning (e.g., removal of oxidelayer). Conditioning may be physical conditioning (e.g., such assieving, e.g., removal of transformed material).

In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises a recyclingmechanism. The recycling mechanism may be housed in a modular chamberand form the recycling module. The recycling module may comprise a pump,or a (e.g., physical, and/or chemical) conditioning mechanism. Physicalconditioning may comprise a sieve. The recycling module may beoperatively coupled to at least one of (i) the processing chamber (e.g.,to the layer dispensing mechanism such as to the material dispensingmechanism) and (ii) the unpacking station. For example, the samerecycling module may be coupled to (i) the processing and (ii) theunpacking station. For example, a first recycling module may be coupledto the processing chamber and a second (e.g., different) recyclingmodule may be coupled to the unpacking station. Coupled may bephysically connected. The recycling module may be reversibly coupled.The recycling module can be extracted and/or exchanged from the (i) theprocessing and/or (ii) the unpacking station before, during, or afterthe 3D printing.

In some examples, while the build module (housing the 3D object) travelsoutside of the 3D printer enclosure (e.g., between the 3D printerenclosure and the unpacking station enclosure), the build module issealed. Sealing may be sufficient to maintain the atmosphere within thebuild module. Sealing may be sufficient to prevent influence of theatmosphere outside of the build module to the atmosphere within thebuild module. Sealing may be sufficient to prevent exposure of thepre-transformed material (e.g., powder) to reactive atmosphere. Sealingmay be sufficient to prevent leakage of the pre-transformed materialfrom the build module. Sufficient may be in the time scale in which thebuild module transfers from one enclosure to another (e.g., through anambient atmosphere). Sufficient may be to maintain 3D object surfacerequirements. Sufficient may be to maintain safety requirementsprevailing in the jurisdiction.

In some embodiments, the unpacking station comprises an unpackingchamber. The unpacking chamber may be accessed from one or moredirections (e.g., sides) by a person or machine located outside of theunpacking chamber. In some embodiments, in addition to the docking area(e.g., FIG. 18D, 1841), the unpacking chamber may be accessed from atleast one, two, three, four, five, or six directions by a person ormachine located outside of the unpacking chamber. FIG. 18A shows anunpacking chamber that can be accessed from the top (e.g., FIG. 18A,1813). FIG. 18D shows a top view of an unpacking chamber that can beaccessed by a person standing outside from three directions (e.g., FIG.18D, 1841, 1842, and 1843). In some embodiments, the 3D object may beremoved from an opening (e.g., a door) of the unpacking chamber. Theremoval of the 3D object may be directly from the unpacking chamber(e.g., not through usage of the build module).

In some embodiments, the material bed disposed within the unpackingchamber is translated (e.g., moved). The movement can be effectuated byusing a moving 3D plane. The 3D plane may be planar, curved, or assumean amorphous 3D shape. The 3D plane may be a strip, a blade, or a ledge.The 3D plane may comprise a curvature. The 3D plane may be curved. The3D plane may be planar (e.g., flat). The 3D plane may have a shape of acurving scarf. The term “3D plane” is understood herein to be a generic(e.g., curved) 3D surface. For example, the 3D plane may be a curved 3Dsurface. Movement of the material bed by a 3D plane is disclosed, forexample, in Patent Application Ser. No. 62/317,070 that is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety. The 3D plane may be form a shovel,or squeegee. The 3D plane may be from a rigid or flexible material. The3D plane may move the material bed from the docking station to adifferent position in the unpacking chamber. For example, the differentposition may be on the scaffold.

In some embodiments, the removal of the 3D object from the material bedis manual or automatic. The removal of the 3D object from the materialbed may be at least partially automatic. Removal of the 3D object fromthe build module may comprise removal of the 3D object from the materialbed. Removal of the 3D object from the build module may comprise removalof the remainders of the material bed that did not transform to form the3D object, from the generated 3D object. The removal of substantiallyall the remainder of the material bed is disclosed in Patent Applicationserial number PCT/US15/36802 that is incorporated herein in itsentirety.

In some cases, unused pre-transformed material (e.g., remainder)surrounds the 3D object in the material bed. The unused pre-transformedmaterial can be substantially removed from the 3D object. Substantialremoval may refer to pre-transformed material covering at most about20%, 15%, 10%, 8%, 6%, 4%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, or 0.1% of the surface of the3D object after removal. Substantial removal may refer to removal of allthe pre-transformed material that was disposed in the material bed andremained as pre-transformed material at the end of the 3D printingprocess (e.g., the remainder), except for at most about 10%, 3%, 1%,0.3%, or 0.1% of the weight of the remainder. Substantial removal mayrefer to removal of all the remainder except for at most about 50%, 10%,3%, 1%, 0.3%, or 0.1% of the weight of the printed 3D object. The unusedpre-transformed material (e.g., powder) can be removed to permitretrieval of the 3D object without digging through the pre-transformedmaterial. For example, the unused pre-transformed material can besuctioned out of the material bed by one or more vacuum ports builtadjacent to the powder bed. After the unused pre-transformed material isevacuated, the 3D object can be removed and the unused pre-transformedmaterial can be re-circulated to a reservoir for use in future 3Dprints.

In some embodiments, the 3D object is generated on a mesh substrate. Asolid platform (e.g., base or substrate) can be disposed underneath themesh such that the powder stays confined in the pre-transformed materialbed and the mesh holes are blocked. The blocking of the mesh holes maynot allow a substantial amount of pre-transformed material to flowthrough. The mesh can be moved (e.g., vertically or at an angle)relative to the solid platform by pulling on one or more posts connectedto either the mesh or the solid platform (e.g., at the one or more edgesof the mesh or of the base) such that the mesh becomes unblocked. Theone or more posts can be removable from the one or more edges by athreaded connection. The mesh substrate can be lifted out of thematerial bed with the 3D object to retrieve the 3D object such that themesh becomes unblocked. Alternatively, the solid platform can be tilted,horizontally moved such that the mesh becomes unblocked. When the meshis unblocked, at least part of the powder flows from the mesh while the3D object remains on the mesh.

In some embodiments, the 3D object is built on a construct comprising afirst and a second mesh, such that at a first position the holes of thefirst mesh are completely obstructed by the solid parts of the secondmesh such that no powder material can flow through the two meshes at thefirst position, as both mesh holes become blocked. The first mesh, thesecond mesh, or both can be controllably moved (e.g., horizontally or inan angle) to a second position. In the second position, the holes of thefirst mesh and the holes of the second mesh are at least partiallyaligned such that the pre-transformed material disposed in the materialbed can flow through to a position below the two meshes, leaving theexposed 3D object.

In some cases, a cooling gas is directed to the hardened material (e.g.,3D object) for cooling the hardened material during its retrieval. Themesh can be sized such that the unused pre-transformed material willsift through the mesh as the 3D object is exposed from the material bed.In some cases, the mesh can be attached to a pulley or other mechanicaldevice such that the mesh can be moved (e.g., lifted) out of thematerial bed with the 3D part.

In some cases, the 3D object (i.e., 3D part) is retrieved within at mostabout 12 hours (h), 6 h, 5 h, 4 h, 3 h, 2 h, 1 h, 30 minutes (min), 20min, 10 min, 5 min, 1 min, 40 seconds (sec), 20 sec, 10 sec, 9 sec, 8sec, 7 sec, 6 sec, 5 sec, 4 sec, 3 sec, 2 sec, or 1 sec aftertransforming of at least a portion of the last powder layer. The 3Dobject can be retrieved during a time period between any of theafore-mentioned time periods (e.g., from about 12 h to about 1 sec, fromabout 12 h to about 30 min, from about 1 h to about 1 sec, or from about30 min to about 40 sec).

In some embodiments, the 3D object is retrieved at a pre-determined(e.g., handling) temperature. In some embodiments, the 3D object isretrieved at a handling (e.g., predetermined) temperature. The 3D objectcan be retrieved when the 3D object (composed of hardened (e.g.,solidified) material) is at a handling temperature that is suitable topermit the removal of the 3D object from the material bed withoutsubstantial deformation. The handling temperature can be a temperaturethat is suitable for packaging of the 3D object. The handlingtemperature can be at most about 120° C., 100° C., 80° C., 60° C., 40°C., 30° C., 25° C., 20° C., 10° C., or 5° C. The handling temperaturecan be of any value between the afore-mentioned temperature values(e.g., from about 120° C. to about 20° C., from about 40° C. to about 5°C., or from about 40° C. to about 10° C.). The deformation may includegeometric distortion. The deformation may include internal deformation.Internal may be within the 3D object or a portion thereof. Thedeformation may include a change in the material properties. Thedeformation may be disruptive (e.g., for the intended purpose of the 3Dobject). The deformation may comprise a geometric deformation. Thedeformation may comprise inconsistent material properties. Thedeformation may occur before, during, and/or after hardening of thetransformed material. The deformation may comprise bending, warping,arching, curving, twisting, balling, cracking, bending, or dislocating.Deviation may comprise deviation from a structural dimension or fromdesired material characteristic.

In some embodiments, the generated 3D object requires very little or nofurther processing after its retrieval. Further processing may be postprinting processing. Further processing may comprise trimming, asdisclosed herein. Further processing may comprise polishing (e.g.,sanding). In some cases, the generated 3D object can be retrieved andfinalized without removal of transformed material and/or auxiliarysupport features.

In some embodiments, the generated 3D object is deviated from itsintended dimensions. The 3D object (e.g., solidified material) that isgenerated can have an average deviation value from the intendeddimensions (e.g., of a desired 3D object) of at most about 0.5 microns(μm), 1 μm, 3 μm, 10 μm, 30 μm, 100 μm, 300 μm or less. The deviationcan be any value between the afore-mentioned values. The averagedeviation can be from about 0.5 μm to about 300 μm, from about 10 μm toabout 50 μm, from about 15 μm to about 85 μm, from about 5 μm to about45 μm, or from about 15 μm to about 35 μm. The 3D object can have adeviation from the intended dimensions in a specific direction,according to the formula Dv+L/K_(dv), wherein Dv is a deviation value, Lis the length of the 3D object in a specific direction, and K_(dv) is aconstant. Dv can have a value of at most about 300 μm, 200 μm, 100 μm,50 μm, 40 μm, 30 μm, 20 μm, 10 μm, 5 μm, 1 μm, or 0.5 μm. Dv can have avalue of at least about 0.5 μm, 1 μm, 3 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 20 μm, 30 μm,50 μm, 70 μm, 100 μm, 300 μm or less. Dv can have any value between theafore-mentioned values. For example, Dv can have a value that is fromabout 0.5 μm to about 300 μm, from about 10 μm to about 50 μm, fromabout 15 μm to about 85 μm, from about 5 μm to about 45 μm, or fromabout 15 μm to about 35 μm. K_(dv) can have a value of at most about3000, 2500, 2000, 1500, 1000, or 500. K_(dv), can have a value of atleast about 500, 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500, or 3000. K_(dv), can have anyvalue between the afore-mentioned values. For example, K_(dv), can havea value that is from about 3000 to about 500, from about 1000 to about2500, from about 500 to about 2000, from about 1000 to about 3000, orfrom about 1000 to about 2500.

In some embodiments, the generated 3D object (i.e., the printed 3Dobject) does not require further processing following its generation bya method described herein. The printed 3D object may require reducedamount of processing after its generation by a method described herein.For example, the printed 3D object may not require removal of auxiliarysupport (e.g., since the printed 3D object was generated as a 3D objectdevoid of auxiliary support). The printed 3D object may not requiresmoothing, flattening, polishing, or leveling. The printed 3D object maynot require further machining. In some examples, the printed 3D objectmay require one or more treatment operations following its generation(e.g., post generation treatment, or post printing treatment). Thefurther treatment step(s) may comprise surface scraping, machining,polishing, grinding, blasting (e.g., sand blasting, bead blasting, shotblasting, or dry ice blasting), annealing, or chemical treatment. Thefurther treatment may comprise physical or chemical treatment. Thefurther treatment step(s) may comprise electrochemical treatment,ablating, polishing (e.g., electro polishing), pickling, grinding,honing, or lapping. In some examples, the printed 3D object may requirea single operation (e.g., of sand blasting) following its formation. Theprinted 3D object may require an operation of sand blasting followingits formation. Polishing may comprise electro polishing (e.g.,electrochemical polishing or electrolytic polishing). The furthertreatment may comprise the use of abrasive(s). The blasting may comprisesand blasting or soda blasting. The chemical treatment may comprise useof an agent. The agent may comprise an acid, a base, or an organiccompound. The further treatment step(s) may comprise adding at least oneadded layer (e.g., cover layer). The added layer may compriselamination. The added layer may be of an organic or inorganic material.The added layer may comprise elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramic, orelemental carbon. The added layer may comprise at least one materialthat composes the printed 3D object. When the printed 3D objectundergoes further treatment, the bottom most surface layer of thetreated object may be different than the original bottom most surfacelayer that was formed by the 3D printing (e.g., the bottom skin layer).

In some embodiments, the methods described herein are performed in theenclosure (e.g., container, processing chamber, and/or build module).One or more 3D objects can be formed in the enclosure (e.g.,simultaneously, and/or sequentially). The enclosure may have apredetermined and/or controlled pressure. The enclosure may have apredetermined and/or controlled atmosphere. The control may be manual orvia a control system. The atmosphere may comprise at least one gas. Insome embodiments, during the 3D printing, the material bed is at aconstant pressure (e.g., without substantial pressure variations).

In some embodiments, the enclosure comprises ambient pressure (e.g., 1atmosphere), negative pressure (i.e., vacuum) or positive pressure.Different portions of the enclosure may have different atmospheres. Thedifferent atmospheres may comprise different gas compositions. Thedifferent atmospheres may comprise different atmosphere temperatures.The different atmospheres may comprise ambient pressure (e.g., 1atmosphere), negative pressure (i.e., vacuum) or positive pressure. Thedifferent portions of the enclosure may comprise the processing chamber,build module, or enclosure volume excluding the processing chamberand/or build module. The vacuum may comprise pressure below 1 bar, orbelow 1 atmosphere. The positively pressurized environment may comprisepressure above 1 bar or above 1 atmosphere. The pressure in theenclosure can be at least about 10⁻⁷ Torr, 10⁻⁶ Torr, 10⁻⁵ Torr, 10⁻⁴Torr, 10⁻³ Torr, 10⁻² Torr, 10⁻¹ Torr, 1 Torr, 10 Torr, 100 Torr, 1 bar,2 bar, 3 bar, 4 bar, 5 bar, 10 bar, 20 bar, 30 bar, 40 bar, 50 bar, 100bar, 200 bar, 300 bar, 400 bar, 500 bar, 1000 bar, or 1100 bar. Thepressure in the enclosure can be at least about 100 Torr, 200 Torr, 300Torr, 400 Torr, 500 Torr, 600 Torr, 700 Torr, 720 Torr, 740 Torr, 750Torr, 760 Torr, 900 Torr, 1000 Torr, 1100 Torr, or 1200 Torr. Thepressure in the enclosure can be between any of the afore-mentionedenclosure pressure values (e.g., from about 10⁻⁷ Torr to about 1200Torr, from about 10⁻⁷ Torr to about 1 Torr, from about 1 Torr to about1200 Torr, or from about 10⁻² Torr to about 10 Torr). The chamber can bepressurized to a pressure of at least 10⁻⁷ Torr, 10⁻⁶ Torr, 10⁻⁵ Torr,10⁻⁴ Torr, 10⁻³ Torr, 10⁻² Torr, 10⁻¹ Torr, 1 Torr, 10 Torr, 100 Torr, 1bar, 2 bar, 3 bar, 4 bar, 5 bar, 10 bar, 20 bar, 30 bar, 40 bar, 50 bar,100 bar, 200 bar, 300 bar, 400 bar, 500 bar, or 1000 bar. The chambercan be pressurized to a pressure of at most 10⁻⁷ Torr, 10⁻⁶ Torr, 10⁻⁵Torr, 10⁻⁴ Torr, 10⁻³ Torr, 10⁻² Torr, 10⁻¹ Torr, 1 Torr, 10 Torr, 100Torr, 1 bar, 2 bar, 3 bar, 4 bar, 5 bar, 10 bar, 20 bar, 30 bar, 40 bar,50 bar, 100 bar, 200 bar, 300 bar, 400 bar, 500 bar, or 1000 bar. Thepressure in the chamber can be at a range between any of theafore-mentioned pressure values (e.g., from about 10⁻⁷ Torr to about1000 bar, from about 10⁻⁷ Torr to about 1 Torr, from about 1 Torr toabout 100 Barr, from about 1 bar to about 10 bar, from about 1 bar toabout 100 bar, or from about 100 bar to about 1000 bar). In some cases,the chamber pressure can be standard atmospheric pressure. The pressuremay be measured at an ambient temperature (e.g., room temperature, 20°C., or 25° C.).

In some embodiments, the enclosure includes an atmosphere. The enclosuremay comprise a (e.g., substantially) inert atmosphere. The atmosphere inthe enclosure may be (e.g., substantially) depleted by one or more gasespresent in the ambient atmosphere. The atmosphere in the enclosure mayinclude a reduced level of one or more gases relative to the ambientatmosphere. For example, the atmosphere may be substantially depleted,or have reduced levels of water (i.e., humidity), oxygen, nitrogen,carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, or any combination thereof. The levelof the depleted or reduced level gas may be at most about 1 ppm, 10 ppm,50 ppm, 100 ppm, 500 ppm, 1000 ppm, 5000 ppm, 10000 ppm, 25000 ppm,50000 ppm, or 70000 ppm volume by volume (v/v). The level of the gas(e.g., depleted or reduced level gas, oxygen, or water) may between anyof the afore-mentioned levels of gas (e.g., from about 1 ppm to about500 ppm, from about 10 ppm to about 100 ppm, from about 500 ppm to about5000 ppm). The reduced level of gas may be compared to the level of gasin the ambient environment. The gas may be a reactive agent. Theatmosphere may comprise air. The atmosphere may be inert. The atmospheremay be non-reactive. The atmosphere may be non-reactive with thematerial (e.g., the pre-transformed material deposited in the layer ofmaterial (e.g., powder), or the material comprising the 3D object). Theatmosphere may prevent oxidation of the generated 3D object. Theatmosphere may prevent oxidation of the pre-transformed material withinthe layer of pre-transformed material before its transformation, duringits transformation, after its transformation, before its hardening,after its hardening, or any combination thereof. The atmosphere maycomprise argon or nitrogen gas. The atmosphere may comprise a Nobel gas.The atmosphere can comprise a gas selected from the group consisting ofargon, nitrogen, helium, neon, krypton, xenon, hydrogen, carbonmonoxide, and carbon dioxide. The atmosphere may comprise hydrogen gas.The atmosphere may comprise a safe amount of hydrogen gas. Theatmosphere may comprise a v/v percent of hydrogen gas of at least about0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%,4%, or 5%, at ambient pressure (e.g., and ambient temperature). Theatmosphere may comprise a v/v percent of hydrogen gas of at most about0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%,4%, or 5%, at ambient pressure (e.g., and ambient temperature). Theatmosphere may comprise any percent of hydrogen between theafore-mentioned percentages of hydrogen gas. The atmosphere may comprisea v/v hydrogen gas percent that is at least able to react with thematerial (e.g., at ambient temperature and/or at ambient pressure), andat most adhere to the prevalent work-safety standards in thejurisdiction (e.g., hydrogen codes and standards). The material may bethe material within the layer of pre-transformed material (e.g.,powder), the transformed material, the hardened material, or thematerial within the 3D object. Ambient refers to a condition to whichpeople are generally accustomed. For example, ambient pressure may be 1atmosphere. Ambient temperature may be a typical temperature to whichhumans are generally accustomed. For example, from about 15° C. to about30° C., from about −30° C. to about 60° C., from about −20° C. to about50° C., from 16° C. to about 26° C., from about 20° C. to about 25° C.“Room temperature” may be measured in a confined or in a non-confinedspace. For example, “room temperature” can be measured in a room, anoffice, a factory, a vehicle, a container, or outdoors. The vehicle maybe a car, a truck, a bus, an airplane, a space shuttle, a space ship, aship, a boat, or any other vehicle. Room temperature may represent thesmall range of temperatures at which the atmosphere feels neither hotnor cold, approximately 24° C. it may denote 20° C., 25° C., or anyvalue from about 20° C. to about 25° C.

In some embodiments, the pre-transformed material is deposited in anenclosure (e.g., a container). FIG. 1 shows an example of a container.The container can contain the pre-transformed material to form amaterial bed (e.g., may contain the pre-transformed material withoutspillage; FIG. 1, 104). The material bed may have a horizontal crosssectional shape, which cross sectional shape may be a geometrical shape(e.g., any geometric shape described herein, for example, triangle,rectangle (e.g., square), ellipse (e.g., circle), or any other polygon).The material may be placed in, or inserted to the container. Thematerial may be deposited in, pushed to, sucked into, or lifted to thecontainer. The material may be layered (e.g., spread) in the container.The container may comprise a substrate (e.g., FIG. 1, 109). Thesubstrate may be situated adjacent to the bottom of the container (e.g.,FIG. 1, 111). Bottom may be relative to the gravitational field, orrelative to the position of the footprint of the energy beam (e.g., FIG.1, 101) on the layer of pre-transformed material as part of a materialbed. The footprint of the energy beam may follow a Gaussian bell shape.In some embodiments, the footprint of the energy beam does not follow aGaussian bell shape. The container may comprise a platform comprising abase (e.g., FIG. 1, 102). The platform may comprise a substrate. Thebase may reside adjacent to the substrate. The pre-transformed materialmay be layered adjacent to a side of the container (e.g., on the bottomof the container). The pre-transformed material may be layered adjacentto the substrate and/or adjacent to the base. Adjacent to may be above.Adjacent to may be directly above, or directly on. The substrate mayhave one or more seals (e.g., 103) that enclose the material in aselected area within the container (e.g., FIG. 1, 111). The one or moreseals may be flexible or non-flexible. The one or more seals maycomprise a polymer or a resin. The one or more seals may comprise around edge or a flat edge. The one or more seals may be bendable ornon-bendable. The seals may be stiff. The container may comprise thebase. The base may be situated within the container. The container maycomprise the platform, which may be situated within the container. Theenclosure, container, processing chamber, and/or building module maycomprise an optical window. An example of an optical window can be seenin FIG. 1, 115. The optical window may allow the energy beam (e.g., 101)to pass through without (e.g., substantial) energetic loss. For example,the energy beam FIG. 5, 507 is (e.g., substantially) equal to the energybeam 503 that traveled through the optical window 504. A ventilator mayprevent spatter from accumulating on the surface optical window that isdisposed within the enclosure (e.g., within the processing chamber)during the 3D printing. An opening of the ventilator may be situatedwithin the enclosure (e.g., comprising atmosphere 126).

In some embodiments, the pre-transformed material is deposited in theenclosure by a material dispensing mechanism (e.g., FIGS. 1, 116, 117and 118) to form a layer of pre-transformed material within theenclosure. The deposited material may be leveled by a levelingoperation. The leveling operation may comprise using a material (e.g.,powder) removal mechanism that does not contact the exposed surface ofthe material bed (e.g., FIG. 1, 118). The leveling operation maycomprise using a leveling mechanism that contacts the exposed surface ofthe material bed (e.g., FIG. 1, 117). The material (e.g., powder)dispensing mechanism may comprise one or more dispensers (e.g., FIG. 1,116). The material dispensing system may comprise at least one material(e.g., bulk) reservoir. The material may be deposited by a layerdispensing mechanism (e.g., recoater). The layer dispensing mechanismmay level the dispensed material without contacting the material bed(e.g., the top surface of the powder bed). The layer dispensingmechanism may include any layer dispensing mechanism and/or a material(e.g., powder) dispenser used in 3D printing such as, for example, theones disclosed in application number PCT/US15/36802 titled “APPARATUSES,SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR 3D PRINTING” that was filed on Jun. 19, 2015, orin Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/317,070 that was filed onApr. 1, 2016, titled “APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EFFICIENTTHREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING,” both of which are entirely incorporatedherein by references.

In some embodiments, the layer dispensing mechanism includes componentscomprising a material dispensing mechanism, material leveling mechanism,material removal mechanism, or any combination or permutation thereof.The layer dispensing mechanism and any of its components may be anylayer dispensing mechanism (e.g., used in 3D printing) such as forexample, any of the ones described in Patent Application serial numberPCT/US15/36802, or in Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/317,070, both of which are entirely incorporated herein byreferences.

In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises a platform. Theplatform (also herein, “printing platform” or “building platform”) maybe disposed in the enclosure (e.g., in the build module and/orprocessing chamber). The platform may comprise a substrate or a base.The substrate and/or the base may be removable or non-removable. Thebuilding platform may be (e.g., substantially) horizontal, (e.g.,substantially) planar, or non-planar. The platform may have a surfacethat points towards the deposited pre-transformed material (e.g., powdermaterial), which at times may point towards the top of the enclosure(e.g., away from the center of gravity). The platform may have a surfacethat points away from the deposited pre-transformed material (e.g.,towards the center of gravity), which at times may point towards thebottom of the container. The platform may have a surface that is (e.g.,substantially) flat and/or planar. The platform may have a surface thatis not flat and/or not planar. The platform may have a surface thatcomprises protrusions or indentations. The platform may have a surfacethat comprises embossing. The platform may have a surface that comprisessupporting features (e.g., auxiliary support). The platform may have asurface that comprises a mold. The platform may have a surface thatcomprises a wave formation. The surface may point towards the layer ofpre-transformed material within the material bed. The wave may have anamplitude (e.g., vertical amplitude or at an angle). The platform (e.g.,base) may comprise a mesh through which the pre-transformed material(e.g., the remainder) may flow through. The platform may comprise amotor. The platform (e.g., substrate and/or base) may be fastened to thecontainer. The platform (or any of its components) may be transportable.The transportation of the platform may be controlled and/or regulated bya controller (e.g., control system). The platform may be transportablehorizontally, vertically, or at an angle (e.g., planar or compound).

In some embodiments, the platform comprises an engagement mechanism. Theengagement mechanism may facilitate engagement and/or dis-engagement ofa base (e.g., FIG. 1, 102) to a substrate (e.g., FIG. 1, 109). Thesubstrate may comprise a (e.g., horizontal) cross section having ageometrical shape. The geometrical shape can be any geometrical shapedescribed herein, e.g., a polygon, triangle, ellipse (e.g., circle), orrectangle. The substrate may comprise a 3D shape. The 3D shape may forma protrusion or intrusion from the average plane of an exposed surfaceof the substrate. The 3D shape may comprise a cuboid (e.g., cube), or atetrahedron. The 3D shape may comprise a polyhedron (e.g., primaryparallelohedron), at least a portion of an ellipse (e.g., circle), acone, or a cylinder. The polyhedron may be a prism (e.g., hexagonalprism), or octahedron (e.g., truncated octahedron). The substrate maycomprise a Platonic solid. The substrate may comprise octahedra,truncated octahedron, or a cube. The substrate may comprise convexpolyhedra (e.g., with regular faces). The substrate may comprise atriangular prism, hexagonal prism, cube, truncated octahedron, orgyrobifastigium. The substrate may comprise a pentagonal pyramid. FIGS.29A-29B, 30A-30B and 31A-31B show to view examples of varioussubstrates. A (e.g., horizontal) cross section of the substrate may be(e.g., substantially) rectangular (e.g., FIG. 29A, 2908; FIG. 29B, 2920;FIG. 30A, 3008; or FIG. 30B, 3020). A (e.g., horizontal) cross sectionof the substrate may be (e.g., substantially) elliptical. For example,the (e.g., horizontal) cross section of the substrate may be (e.g.,substantially) circular (e.g., FIG. 31A, 3130, or FIG. 31B, 3155). A(e.g., horizontal) cross section of the substrate may be (e.g.,substantially) triangular. A (e.g., horizontal) cross section of thesubstrate may comprise a polygonal shape. The substrate may comprise afastener (e.g., FIG. 29A, 2905; FIG. 29B, 2945; FIG. 30A, 3005; FIG.31A, 3145, or FIG. 31B, 3185). The fastener can comprise an interlockingmechanism. The interlocking mechanism may be any interlocking mechanismdescribed herein. For example, the fastener can comprise a clampingmechanism. The fastener may facilitate engagement and/or locking of thesubstrate to the. The fastener may brace, band, clamp, or clasp the baseto the substrate (e.g., as part of the platform). The fastener may holdthe base together with the substrate. The fastener may comprise aclamping station. The fastener may comprise a docking station. Thesubstrate may (e.g., optionally) include an aligner (e.g., FIG. 30B,3025, 3040, and/or 3045). The substrate may comprise a stopper (e.g.,FIG. 29B, 2930, 2925; FIG. 30B, 3030; FIG. 31A, 3140, 3125; FIG. 31B,3175, or 3165). The stopper may serve also as the aligner. The alignermay also serve as the stopper. The stopper and the aligner may be thesame component. The stopper and the aligner may be separate components.At times, the substrate may be operatively (e.g., physically) coupled toan elevator mechanism (e.g., one or more shafts). The elevator mechanismmay comprise the platform (e.g., including the substrate and the base).The platform may have a (e.g., horizontal) cross section comprising ageometric shape (e.g., any geometric shape described herein). The basemay be reversibly coupled to the substrate. At times, the base may be anintegral portion of the substrate. At times, the base and the substratemay have an identical shape. At times, the substrate and the base mayhave a different shape. The substrate and/or base may be translatable.For example, the substrate and/or base may translate in a translationdirection of the elevation mechanism (e.g., comprising an actuator thatfacilitates vertical movement of the platform).

In some embodiments, the substrate and the base are separate and arebrought together to form the platform. For example, the substrate may bestationary, and the base may be mobile. The base may translate to engagewith the substrate. The engagement of the base with the substrate may bereversible, manual, automatic, and/or controlled. The engagement and/ordisengagement of the base with the substrate may be before and/or afterthe 3D printing. The control may be manual and/or automatic (e.g., usinga controller). On translation, the aligner(s) may constrain (e.g.,facilitate alignment) of the movement of the base with respect to thesubstrate (e.g., by using a rail, protrusion, and/or intrusion). Thealigner may be a guide. On translation, the stopper may constrain themovement of the base with respect to the substrate (e.g., by using akinematic stopper, a clamping mechanism, a kinematic coupling, and/or acombination thereof). The substrate may comprise one or more stoppersand/or aligners. The stopper may facilitate alignment, position and/oraffixing of the base (e.g., during an engaging operation) to thesubstrate.

In some embodiments, the stopper has a structure (e.g., geometry) thatfacilitates self-alignment, and/or self-affixing of the base to theplatform (e.g., during the movement of the base relative to thesubstrate). The stopper and/or aligner may have a rectangular shapedcross section (e.g., 2930, or 2925). The cross section may be horizontaland/or vertical. The stopper and/or aligner may comprise a triangularcross section. The stopper and/or aligner may comprise a first crosssection that is rectangular and a second cross section that comprises atriangle. The first cross section may be (e.g., substantially)perpendicular to the second cross section. The stopper and/or alignermay comprise a curvature. For example, a cross section of the stopperand/or aligner may be of an arc shape (e.g., 3175, or 3165). A firststopper may be of a different shape than a second stopper. A firstaligner may be of a different shape than a second aligner. A firststopper may be of a same shape as a second stopper. A first aligner maybe of a same shape as a second aligner. A stopper may have a differenthorizontal cross sectional shape than that of the substrate and/or base.At times, the stopper may have a same horizontal cross sectional shapeas that of the substrate and/or base. The stopper and/or aligner mayhave a surface (e.g., material and/or shape thereof) that forms acomplementary contact with the base. Complementary may comprisemirroring or matching. The stopper may comprise one or more fixtures.The fixture may comprise a cross section having a geometrical shape(e.g., FIG. 31B, 3180, any geometrical shape described herein, e.g., apolygon). The fixture may have a 3D shape (e.g., any 3D shape describedherein). The fixture may be a geometrical shaped indentation,protrusion, or any combination thereof. The stopper may comprise one ormore fixtures. The base (e.g., bottom portion thereof) may comprise oneor more fixtures. In some examples, at least two of the fixtures may beof a different shape and/or volume. In some examples, at least two ofthe fixtures may be of the same shape and/or volume. A base fixture maybe complementary to a stopper fixture. The stopper may be coupled to thesubstrate, or may be a part of the substrate. A base fixture may becomplementary to a substrate fixture. FIGS. 27A-27C show examples ofvarious fixtures depicted as vertical cross sections. FIG. 27A shows anexample of a substrate 2712 that includes a fixture having a rectangularcross section 2710. The base may comprise an upper portion (e.g., FIG.27A, 2702) and a lower portion (e.g., FIG. 27A, 2706). In some examples,the cross sections of the indentation are different from vertical. Forexample, the cross section may be horizontal. The two portions may beseparate or be portions of one piece. The lower portion of the base maycomprise a complementary fixture (e.g., FIG. 27A, 2708). The base may beinserted (e.g., moved) in a lateral direction (e.g., FIG. 27A, 2714) toengage the base with the substrate (e.g., by mutual engagement of thesubstrate fixture and the complementary lower base fixture). FIG. 27Bshow an example of a substrate 2732 that include a circular shapedfixture 2730. The lower portion of the base (e.g., FIG. 27B, 2736)includes a complementary fixture (e.g., FIG. 27C, 2738). The base may beinserted (e.g., moved) in a lateral direction (e.g., FIG. 27C, 2734) toengage the base with the substrate (e.g., by mutual engagement of thefixture with the lower base portion). FIG. 27C shows an example of asubstrate 2752 that include a triangular shaped fixture 2750. The lowerportion of the base (e.g., FIG. 27C, 2756) includes a complementaryfixture (e.g., FIG. 27C, 2758). The base may be inserted (e.g., moved)in a lateral direction (e.g., FIG. 27C, 2754) to engage the base withthe substrate (e.g., by mutual engagement of the lower base portionfixture with the substrate fixture). The complementary (e.g., mutual)engagement of the fixtures may be through a kinematic coupling. Thefixture may comprise a dove-tail. The fixture may comprise a dove-tailcomplementary shape. The coupling of the fixtures may comprise dove-tailcoupling. The fixture (e.g., of the stopper, substrate, and/or base) maycomprise a slanted surface (e.g., with respect to an average plane ofthe bottom surface of the substrate). The fixture (e.g., of the stopper,substrate, and/or base) may comprise a triangle. Bottom may be in thedirection of the gravitational center. The stopper may be locatedadjacent to, or be part of, a wall of the substrate. Multiple stoppersmay be located adjacent to a first wall of the substrate. The substratemay (e.g., optionally) comprise an aligner (e.g., a rail, a bar, alever, a sensor, a mark, an actuator, or a track). The aligner mayfacilitate alignment (e.g., self-alignment) of the base, when engagingor dis-engaging from the substrate. The aligner may be located adjacentto a stopper. The aligner may be located (e.g., etched, imprinted,ingrained, or affixed) on a top surface of the substrate. The alignermay include an indentation, protrusion, and/or a combination thereof(e.g., as described herein). The aligner may comprise a mechanical,pneumatic, electronic, electrical, magnetic or sensor mechanism. Themechanism may facilitate (e.g., positional) alignment of the base to thesubstrate. FIG. 30B shows an example of an aligner, depicted as a topview. The aligner may be located on a top surface of the substrate(e.g., FIG. 30B, 3020). The substrate may include one or more aligners(e.g., FIG. 30B, 3025, 3040, or 3045). At least two of a plurality ofaligners may be the same. For example, a first aligner (e.g., 3025) maybe of the same type as a second aligner (e.g., FIG. 30B, 3045). At leasttwo of a plurality of aligners may be different. For example, a firstaligner (e.g., 3025) may be of a different type than the second aligner(e.g., FIG. 30B, 3040). For example, the first aligner may be a railthrough which a lower portion of the base may slide through, and thesecond aligner may include an indented slider track. The aligners may belocated adjacent to a stopper (e.g., FIG. 30B, 3030). The stopper maycomprise one or more fixtures. FIG. 30B shows an example of threedifferent fixtures 3032 in a stopper 3030 that can facilitate kinematiccoupling of the stopper with a base plate (e.g., that comprisescomplementary three fixtures). The base (e.g., lower portion thereof)may be inserted (e.g., slide) through the one or more aligners, whenengaging and/or dis-engaging with the stopper. At times, the aligner mayinclude a sensor. The sensor may send a signal to the controller tofacilitate alignment

In some embodiments, the base is translatable (e.g., to engage (and/ordis-engage) with the substrate and/or stopper). The base may bereversibly and/or controllably connected to the substrate. The base maycomprise a geometrical shape (e.g., any geometric shape describedherein, for example, triangle, rectangle, ellipse, or polygon). The basemay comprise the engagement mechanism. The engagement mechanism may bemanual and/or automatic. The engagement mechanism may be controlled. Atleast a portion of the engagement (and/or dis-engagement) of the basewith the substrate may be at an angle (e.g., planar or compound)relative to the bottom surface of the platform. The engagement mechanismmay use a device that facilitates the engagement (e.g., an actuator).For example, the engagement mechanism may comprise a robotic arm, acrane, conveyor (e.g., conveyor belt), rotating screw, or a movingsurface (e.g., moving base). The engagement and/or disengagement may bemanual. The engagement mechanism may comprise a portion of an aligner(e.g., comprising a rail, a bar, a lever, a sensor, a mark, an actuator,or a track) operatively coupled to the substrate (or a part of thesubstrate) that engages with the base. The engagement mechanism maycomprise a portion of an aligner operatively coupled to the base (or apart of the base) that engages with the substrate. The aligner may bedisposed on the base and/or on the substrate. In some embodiments, afirst portion of the aligner may be coupled to (or be part of) the base,and a complementary portion of the aligner may be coupled to (or be partof) the substrate. The engagement mechanism may comprise a mechanismthat can move a platform component (e.g., move the base). The movementmay be controlled (e.g., manually, and/or automatically, e.g., using acontroller). The movement may include using (i) a control signal and/or(ii) a source of energy (e.g., manual power, electricity, hydraulicpressure, gas pressure, electrostatic force, or magnetic force). The gaspressure may be positive and/or negative as compared to the ambientpressure. Optionally, the movement may comprise using a sensor, or analigner. The engagement mechanism may use electricity, pneumaticpressure, hydraulic pressure, magnetic power, electrostatic power, humanpower, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the (e.g.,entire) top surface of the base may be available for use during the 3Dprinting (e.g., to build the 3D object). The top surface of the base maybe (e.g., entirely) free of a feature (e.g., clamping mechanism, or abolt) that facilitates engagement of the to the substrate.

In some embodiments, the engagement mechanism comprises a connector. Theconnector may be located at, or within a lower portion of the base. Theconnector may be located adjacent to a periphery (e.g., circumference,boundary) of a portion of the base. The connector may comprise one ormore fixtures. The connector fixture(s) and the stopper fixture(s) mayconstrain each other on mutual engagement. The engagement of thecomplementary fixtures may trigger a signal. The signal may bedetectable and/or identifiable. For example, the signal may comprise anelectronic, pneumatic, sound, light, or magnetic signal. The signal maycomprise an assertion of the engagement of the base with the substrate.FIG. 32 shows an example of a top view of a base (e.g., bottom) portion(e.g., FIG. 32, 3205) shown as a horizontal cross section. The base maybe circular in shape. The base may comprise a connector including one ormore fixtures (e.g., FIG. 32, 3215, 3220, or 3225). The connector may belocated adjacent to a periphery (e.g., on a portion of thecircumference) of the base portion. The base portion coupled fixturesshown in FIG. 32 are protrusions, however, the fixtures can includeprotrusions and/or indentations. The base may be engaged to a substrate.For example, FIG. 32, 3210 shows a portion of a substrate (e.g., astopper coupled to the substrate). The substrate may comprise one ormore fixtures (e.g., FIG. 32, 3230, 3235, or 3240). The substratecoupled fixtures shown in FIG. 32 are indentations, however, thefixtures can include protrusions and/or indentations. In some examples,the fixture comprises a charge. The charge may be magnetic or electric.For example, the charge on a base fixture may be of one type, and thecomplementary fixture on the substrate and/or stopper may be of anopposing change to the one type. For example, the charge on a basefixture may be positive electric charge, and the complementary fixtureon the substrate and/or stopper may be negative electric charge. In someexamples, the fixtures may be devoid of indentation and/or protrusion.In some examples, the fixtures may be devoid of a charge. In someexamples, the fixtures may include (i) an indentation and/or protrusion,(ii) a charge (e.g., magnetic, and/or electric), (iii) or anycombination thereof. The fixture of the substrate and/or stopper and thefixture of the base may be complementary. For example, fixture FIG. 32,3225 may be a protrusion that complements with an indentation FIG. 32,3240. For example, fixture 3220 may be a protrusion that complementswith an indentation FIG. 32, 3235. For example, fixture FIG. 32, 3215may be a protrusion that complements with an indentation FIG. 32, 3230.When engaged, the fixtures may (e.g., accurately) fit into the eachother. When engaged, the fixtures facilitate (e.g., accurate)positioning of the base relative to the substrate, for example, byconstraining the relative movement of the base to the substrate.

In some embodiments, the engagement of the base with the substratecomprises a complementary engagement. The engagement may comprise adove-tail engagement. The base may be reversibly engaged with thesubstrate. The base may be accurately engaged with the substrate. Thebase may repeatedly (e.g., before or after 3D printing) be engaged withthe substrate. The base may be controllably engaged (e.g., automatic,and/or manual) with the substrate. The engagement may comprise fittingtogether. The engagement can comprise at least one protrusion that fitsinto at least one complementary indentation respectively. For example,the stopper (e.g., located on or coupled to the substrate) may comprisea first fixture and the connector (e.g., located on the base) maycomprise a second fixture that is complementary to the first fixture,which fit (e.g., couples) into each other on engagement of the base withthe substrate. The fitting may be a kinematic coupling. The fitting intoeach other on engagement may prevent one or more degrees of freedom. Forexample, a horizontal and/or vertical degree of freedom of the baserelative to the substrate. A fixture within the kinematic coupling maycomprise a pentagonal pyramid. The fixture may be an indentation of the3D shape (e.g., a V-groove is an indentation of a cone). A portion ofthe ellipse may be a hemisphere. For example, the engagement (e.g.,coupling) of the base with the substrate may comprise engagement of oneor more (e.g., three) radial v-grooves with one or more complementaryhemispheres. One or more may comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5. Theengagement of the complementary fixtures may comprise at least one(e.g., two, or three) contact point. The contact point may constrain thedegree(s) of freedom of the stage. The degree(s) of freedom may compriseat least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 degrees of freedom. The degree(s) offreedom may comprise any value between the afore-mentioned degrees offreedom (e.g., from 1 to 6, from 2 to 6, or from 4 to 6). In someexamples, the complementary fixtures may not precisely fit into eachother. For example, the complementary fixtures may engage with eachother, and not precisely fit into each other. In some examples, thecomplementary fixtures may engage with each other, and restrain at leastone degree of freedom of at least one of the stage and the stopper. Forexample, the first fixture may be a V-groove and its complementaryfixture may be a hemisphere. For example, the first fixture may be atetrahedral dent, and its complementary fixture may be a hemisphere. Forexample, the first fixture may be a rectangular depression, and itscomplementary fixture may be a hemisphere. The kinematic coupling maycomprise Kelvin or Maxwell coupling.

FIG. 28A shows a side view example of a 3D printer comprising an energybeam 2803 that is directed towards a substrate 2806 that is supported aplurality of vertically movable shafts 2810. The enclosure of the 3Dprinter 2801 comprises the substrate 2806 that resides adjacent to(e.g., above) the shafts. A base comprising an upper portion (e.g., FIG.28A, 2802) and a lower portion (e.g., FIG. 28A, 2804) may engage withthe substrate. FIG. 28A shows an example of a lower portion of the base2804 that engages with the substrate 2806, which engagement isfacilitated by dove-tail engagement indentation 2816. The base may belaterally movable (e.g., in the direction of 2805 in FIG. 28A). Thesubstrate 2806 may comprise a fixture (e.g., indentation 2816 in FIG.28A) that at least restrains a degree of movement of the base byengaging with a complementary fixture of the base (e.g., dovetailtriangular tip of 2804 in FIG. 28A). The fixture on the base and/orsubstrate may comprise an optional pneumatic, electronic, magnetic,auditory, or optical mechanism. FIG. 28B shows a horizontal view of abase 2850 having three (protruding) fixtures 2881-2883 that complementthree (indentation) fixtures 2861-2863 respectively on engagement of thebase 2850 with a stopper (or a substrate portion) 2872 (e.g., thestopper may be coupled to the substrate). The base may be horizontallyand/or vertically movable. During the engagement of the base with thesubstrate, the stopper and/or substrate may be stationary. The base andsubstrate may engage before, after, and/or during the 3D printing (e.g.,before the material bed has been deposited, or after the material bedhas been removed). The base and substrate may be dis-engaged before,after, and/or during the 3D printing (e.g., before the material bed hasbeen deposited, or after the material bed has been removed). Theengagement and/or dis-engagement may be controlled before, after, and/orduring the 3D printing (e.g., before the material bed has beendeposited, or after the material bed has been removed). The control maybe manual and/or automatic (e.g., using a controller).

In some embodiments, the base may reversibly couple to the substrate.The coupling may be automatic, the coupling may facilitate the (e.g.,entire) top surface of the base plate to be available for 3D printing).FIGS. 25A-25C show side view examples of an engagement of a base withthe substrate. FIG. 25A shows an example of a base in the process ofengaging its lower portion 2506 with a portion of the substrate 2512.The base may comprise an upper portion (e.g., FIG. 25A, 2502). The upperand lower segments of the base may be parts of a single object (e.g., asingle block of material). The separation of the upper and lowerportions of the base may be for illustrative purposes. In someembodiments, the upper portion and the lower portions of the base aretwo separate portions that are joined together (e.g., by welding orfastening). The base may be inserted in a lateral direction (e.g., FIG.25A, 2514) to engage with the substrate. The base may be inserted in alateral and/or angular direction to engage with the substrate. The lowerportion of the base may comprise a fixture (e.g., FIG. 25A, 2508). Thesubstrate may comprise a stopper that includes a fixture (e.g., FIG.25A, 2510) that is complementary to the base fixture. The stopperfixture and the base fixture may fit (e.g., to prevent one or moredegrees of freedom of the base and/or substrate) when engaged. A cavity(e.g., FIG. 25A, 2518) may be formed between the upper portion of thebase and the substrate. The cavity may accommodate at least onecomponent (e.g., FIG. 25A, 2516). The component may be a sensor or atemperature regulator (e.g., heater and/or cooler). The temperatureregulator may (e.g., uniformly) heat the upper portion of the base. The3D object may be built above (e.g., on) the upper portion of the base.FIG. 25B shows an example of a base comprising a lower portion 2524 thatis engaged with the substrate 2526 using coupling of base and substratefixtures 2522. The engagement may be precise. Precise may includemutually accurate alignment of the fixtures. Precise may include alignedand/or cohesive engagement of the base and substrate/stopper fixtures.FIG. 25C shows an example of fastening (e.g., clamping) the base to thesubstrate (e.g., following their mutual engagement). The fastener (e.g.,clamping mechanism) may comprise a manual fastener (e.g., a rotatingscrew, FIG. 25C, 2536). The screw may be inserted (e.g., manually,and/or automatically) to lock the engagement of the base to thesubstrate. The fastener may not disturb (e.g., touch or take a portionfrom) the exposed (e.g., upper) surface of the base (e.g., FIG. 25C,2530). The fastener may be located at an angle with respect to theaverage lower surface of the substrate (e.g., FIG. 25C, 2532). Thefastener may be inserted through a portion of the base, and a portion ofthe substrate. The fastener may optionally penetrate through the cavity.In some embodiments, the clamping mechanism may be adjacent to thefastener.

In some embodiments, the fastener comprises a clamping mechanism. Thefastener may constrain (e.g., clamp, lock, tighten, hold, bind, clasp,or grip) the base to the substrate, when engaged. The fastener mayrelease (e.g., unconstrain, free, unlock, or loosen) the base from thesubstrate and/or stopper, when dis-engaged. The fastener may beautomatic and/or manual. A manual fastener may comprise humanintervention. For example, a manual fastening may comprise a screw,hinge, brace, strap, or lever clamp. The fastener may be a mechanical,pneumatic, hydraulic, vacuum, magnetic, or an electrostatic clamp. Thefastener may be inserted (e.g., rotated), through a portion of theengaged base and substrate to constrain their mutual engagement. Thefastener may be inserted in a horizontal manner, and/or at an angle(e.g., FIG. 28, 2805). The fastener may be inserted through at least alower portion of the engaged base and at least an upper portion of thesubstrate. The clamping mechanism may not be inserted through the topsurface of the base. An automatic fastening may not require humanintervention. The automatic fastening may include a mechanical,electrical, pneumatic, magnetic, or electrostatic component. Thefastening may include a kinematic coupling. The fastening may compriserotating a base and/or substrate. The fastening may include a clickmechanism (e.g., to engage/dis-engage). The fastener may facilitatealigning, positioning, and/or affixing the base and the substrate, whenengaged (e.g., during, before and/or after 3D printing). The fastenermay be operatively coupled to at least one controller. The controllermay receive a signal from the engagement mechanism (e.g., fixturecoupling). The controller may receive a signal on engagement of the baseto the substrate/stopper. The controller may automatically fasten (e.g.,clamp) the base to the substrate/stopper (e.g., in response to theengagement). The controller may receive a signal of print completion,removal of a 3D object, and/or removal of the material bed. Thecontroller may automatically release the fastener (e.g., in response tothe completion of print or in response to the removal of the 3D object).The controller may receive an indication (e.g., a click, movement of abase, or movement of a substrate/stopper) to engage and/or dis-engagethe base from the substrate/stopper/aligner. The controller may triggeran automatic lock and/or release of the base to the substrate/stopper.The controller may include a processor. The controller may be acontroller described herein.

In some embodiments, the fastening between the base and the substrate isautomatic. FIGS. 26A-26C show side view examples of an automatic (e.g.,electro-mechanical) fasteners. FIG. 26A shows an example of an upperportion of a base 2602 and a lower portion of the base 2606 in theprocess of engaging 2614 with a portion of the substrate 2612. Thefastening mechanism (e.g., fastener) may comprise a plurality of parts.A first part of the fastening mechanism (e.g., FIG. 26A, 2604) may belocated on an upper portion of the base. At times, the first portion ofthe fastening mechanism may be located on a portion adjacent (e.g.,laterally) to the base. A second portion of the fastening mechanism(e.g., FIG. 26A, 2618) may be located on an upper portion of thesubstrate (e.g., comprising the exposed surface of the substrate). Thefirst and second portion of the fastening mechanism may not be alignedwith each other prior to coupling of the substrate and the base. Thefirst and second portion of the fastening mechanism may be in theprocess of aligning with each other, when the base and the substrate arein the process of engaging with each other (e.g., during the movementFIG. 26A, 2614 of the base). The first and the second portion of thefastening mechanism may be aligned (e.g., FIG. 26B, 2626) with eachother, when the base and the substrate are engaged (e.g., FIG. 26B,2622). The fastening mechanism may comprise a controller. The controllermay be operatively coupled to a sensor. The sensor may sense anengagement of the base with the substrate. The controller may receive anindication (e.g., signal, a rotation of a portion of the fasteningmechanism, e.g., FIG. 26C, 2640), from the sensor when the base engagesand/or couples with the substrate. The controller may (e.g., optionally)trigger an alignment operation of the first and second portion of theclamping mechanism. The controller may sense an alignment of the firstand second portions of the fastening mechanism. The controller maytrigger a fastening operation (e.g., locking operation, FIG. 26C, 2636)of the fastening mechanism on/after sensing alignment (e.g., FIG. 26B).The alignment may be automatic and/or manual. The fastening operationmay require human intervention. The clamping operation may be automatic(e.g., self-aligning, self-locking, controller directed aligning,controller directed locking, and/or click to lock mechanism). Thefastening operation may be directed, modulated, and/or monitored by acontroller. The fastening operation may include a kinematic coupling.The fastening operation may include lowering an upper portion of thefastening mechanism (e.g., rotating a screw). The fastening operationmay include fitting a third portion of the fastening mechanism (e.g.,FIG. 26C, 2634) into a fourth portion of the fastening mechanism (e.g.,FIG. 26C, 2638). For example, fitting a bolt into a nut. Optionally, thefastening operation may include rotating the fixture (e.g., FIG. 26C,2640). The rotating portion may fasten the third and fourth portionswith each other (e.g., after alignment of the first and second portionsof the fastening mechanism). The third portion may be the same ordifferent from the first portion. The second portion may be the same ordifferent from the fourth portion. For example, the first portion may bea sensor and the second portion may be a detector. For example, thefirst portion may be a bolt and the second portion may be a nut.

In some embodiments, the platform comprises a cavity (e.g., FIG. 25A,2518). The platform may be formed by coupling of the base with thesubstrate. The cavity may be located within a lower portion of the base.The cavity may be formed between a portion of the base (e.g., FIG. 25A,2502) and a portion of the substrate (e.g., FIG. 25A, 2512). The cavitymay be located below the base. Below may be towards the center ofgravity, or towards the shaft(s). The cavity may be located between aportion of the substrate and a portion of the elevator mechanism (e.g.,below a platform). A component (e.g., sensor, a portion of the clampingmechanism, a support, an insulator, an actuator, a temperaturecontroller, or an aligner) may be included within the cavity. Thecomponent may be coupled to a lower portion of the base. The componentmay be coupled to an upper portion (e.g., top surface) of the substrate.The component may be placed (e.g., manually, and/or automatically)within the cavity. The component may be any sensor, controller, and/orfastener, or aligner described herein. For example, the component may bea temperature adjuster (e.g., a heater, cooler). The temperatureadjustor/controller/regulator may maintain a uniform temperature acrossa (e.g., substantial, entire) area of the base and/or the substrate. Thecomponent may include an insulator. The insulator may isolate a portionof the elevator mechanism from a (e.g., temperature controlled) portionof the base and/or the substrate.

In some embodiments, the platform is transferable. The platform may bevertically transferable, for example using an actuator. The platform maybe transferable using a lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism maycomprise a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism may comprise a (i) leadscrew (e.g., with a nut), or (ii) scissor jack. The lead screw (e.g.,FIG. 19, 1911) may comprise a nut. The nut may be coupled to a shaft orguide rod (e.g., FIG. 19, 1909). A turning of the lead screws and/or nutmay allow the shaft (or guide rod) to travel (e.g., vertically FIG. 19,1912). The lead screw can be coupled to an actuator (e.g., a motor,e.g., FIG. 19, 1910). The scissor jack (e.g., FIG. 20, 2009) maycomprise a horizontal lead screw (e.g., FIG. 20, 2010). The scissor jackmay comprise a frame to drive the platform (e.g., substrate FIG. 20,2002) up and/or down (e.g., FIG. 20, 2012). The actuator may comprise adrive mechanism. The drive mechanism may be a direct drive mechanism.The drive mechanism may comprise one or more guide posts. The guideposts may be guided with bearings (e.g., linear bearings), and/orscissor guide. The drive mechanism may comprise high torque and lowinertia. The drive mechanism may comprise a feedback sensor. Thefeedback sensor may be disposed (e.g., directly) on a rotary part of thedrive mechanism. The feedback sensor may facilitate precise angularposition sensing. The lifting mechanism may comprise a guide mechanism.The guide mechanism may comprise one or more guide posts. The guideposts may be vertical guide posts (e.g., FIG. 21, 2110). The guidemechanism may comprise one or more (e.g., linear) bearings, columns, orscissor guides. The guide mechanism may comprise a linear motor. Thelinear motor may comprise a (e.g., linear) array of magnets (e.g., FIG.21, 2110), and an electro magnet (e.g., FIG. 21, 2109). The guidemechanism may comprise a (e.g., motorized) linear slide. The guidemechanism may facilitate vertical guidance (e.g., FIG. 21, 2112) of theplatform (e.g., base FIG. 21, 2102). The guide mechanism may compriseone or more horizontal guide posts (e.g., FIGS. 22, 2209 and 2210). Theguide post may be coupled (e.g., connected) to the platform (e.g.,substrate) and/or bottom of the build platform. The guide mechanism maycomprise one or more bearings (e.g., FIG. 22, 2223, or 2224). The guidemechanism may comprise a motor. The guide mechanism may comprise a screw(e.g., FIG. 22, 2211). The motor may be connected to the screw. Theguide post may comprise a (e.g., linear) slide. The guide mechanism mayfacilitate vertical guidance (e.g., FIG. 22, 2212) of the platform(e.g., base FIG. 22, 2202). The guide post may comprise a shaft that iscoupled thereto (e.g., shaft FIG. 22, 2220 is coupled to the guide post2209, shaft 2221 is coupled to guide post FIG. 22, 2210). Coupled may beconnected. The shafts may comprise wheels or bearings (e.g., FIG. 22,2224 or 2223). The wheels or bearings may slide along the guide posthorizontally or vertically. FIG. 22 shows an example where the bearings2223 and 2224 slide horizontally. The shafts may be coupled in at leastone position (e.g., FIG. 22, 2213). The movement of the shafts along theguide post may cause the platform to alter its vertical position. Theguide posts may allow the platform to retain its leveled (e.g.,horizontal) position. A movement of the screw (e.g., FIG. 22, 2211) mayallow the wheels or bearings that are coupled to the shafts to altertheir position (e.g., controllably), thus altering the position of theshafts, and subsequently altering the position of the platform. Forexample, a revolution of the screw (e.g., FIG. 22, 2211) may shift thebearings 2223 and 2224 both in a horizontal (e.g., FIGS. 22, 2215 and2214) and vertical (e.g., FIG. 22, 2212) position, which willsubsequently alter the position of the platform vertically. The liftingmechanism may comprise a (e.g., automatic) device that useserror-sensing negative feedback to correct the performance of thelifting mechanism (e.g., servo). The bearing may comprise a ball,dovetail, linear-roller, magnetic, or fluid bearing. The guide mechanismmay comprise a rail. The actuator may be controlled by at least one ofthe build module controller, processing chamber controller, and loadlock controller. In some embodiments, a different controller controlsthe actuator at different times (e.g., attachment or detachment of thebuild module from the processing chamber and/or the load lock). Thelifting (e.g., elevation) mechanism may comprise an encoder (e.g., FIG.19, 1923). The encoder may facilitate controlling (e.g., monitoring) the(e.g., relative) vertical position of the platform. The encoder may spanthe (e.g., allowed) motion region of the elevation mechanism. The termslifting mechanism and elevation mechanism are used hereininterchangeably.

In some embodiments, the actuator causes a translation. The actuator maycause a vertical translation (e.g., FIG. 19, 1912). An actuator causinga vertical translation (e.g., an elevation mechanism) is shown as anexample in FIG. 1, 105. The up and down arrow next to the indication forvertical translation FIG. 19, 1912, signifies a possible direction ofmovement of the elevation mechanism, or a possible direction of movementeffectuated by the elevation mechanism. The elevation mechanism maycomprise one or more vertical actuators. The vertical actuators maycomprise guide rods. The elevation mechanism (e.g., lifting mechanism)may comprise one or more guide rods. FIG. 1 shows an example of a singleguide rod as part of the elevation mechanism for vertical translation112. The elevation mechanism may comprise at least 2, 3, 4, 5 guide rods(e.g., FIG. 19, 1909). The motor of the multiplicity of guide rods maybe synchronized to facilitate a planar movement of the platform upand/or down. The guide rods may be stably connected to the platform(e.g., comprising a base FIG. 19, 1902). The guide rods may facilitatecontrol of the magnitude, direction and/or angle of elevation of theplatform. The guide rods may be dense. In some embodiments, the guiderods may be hollow. The guide rods may comprise a channel The channelmay allow electricity and/or gas to run through. The channel may allowelectrical cables to run through. The elevation mechanism may comprisehydraulic, magnetic, or electronic force. The guide rods may comprise orbe coupled to a nut. The elevation mechanism may comprise one or morelead screws (e.g., FIG. 19, 1911). The nut may rotate with respect tothe lead screw to allow vertical motion of the platform to which the nutis coupled. The lead screw may rotate with respect to the nut to allowvertical motion of the platform to which the nut is coupled. The leadscrews may be coupled to a motor (e.g., FIG. 19, 1910). The motor mayrotate the lead screws to allow the guide rods to travel up and/or downalong the lead screw. The platform (e.g., and forming material bed FIG.19, 1904) may be in a first environment, and the lead screws may be in asecond environment. The first environment may be (e.g., substantially)similar or different from the second environment. The first and secondenvironments may be separated from each other by at least one seal(e.g., FIG. 19, 1905, 1925). The seal may be a gas seal. The seal may bea seal that prevents a pre-transformed (and a transformed) material totravel through. The seal may be a sieve. The seal may be any sealdisclosed herein. In some embodiments, the nut may be motorized.

In some embodiments, the platform is coupled to an encoder. The platformmay be coupled to a vertical encoder. The encoder may be a rotaryencoder, a shaft encoder, an electro-mechanical encoder, an opticalencoder, a magnetic encoder, a capacitive encoder, a gray encoder, anelectrical encoder, or a servo motor. One of a side of the encoder maybe coupled to a bottom surface of the platform. The opposite side of theencoder may be coupled to a bottom plate of the build module. Theencoder may comprise a sensor (e.g., a position sensor, a thermalsensor, a motion sensor, or a weight sensor). The sensor may be anysensor disclosed herein. The sensor may sense a thermal expansion and/orcontraction of the platform. The sensor may sense a thermal expansionand/or contraction of the elevator mechanism. The sensor may sense athermal expansion and/or contraction of the build module. The sensor maysense a weight on the platform. The sensor may sense a position (e.g.,absolute, or relative position) of the elevator mechanism. The sensormay sense a motion of the elevator mechanism. The sensed measurement maybe received by the encoder. The encoder may direct a controller (e.g.,an actuator) to adjust the measurement (e.g., before, during and/orafter the 3D printing). For example, the controller may compensate forthermal expansion and/or contraction. The controller may adjust aposition of the elevator mechanism based on the load on the platform.The adjustment may be before, during and/or after the 3D printing.

In some embodiments, an encoder is coupled to the build module. Thebottom of the build module (e.g., bottom of the elevator mechanism) maybe coupled to one or more encoders. In some embodiments, the bottomencoder may be coupled to an external engagement mechanism (e.g., FIG.19, 1940). The bottom encoders may be any encoder disclosed herein. Thebottom encoders may communicate with a controller. The bottom encodersmay communicate with the same controller as the vertical encoder. Thebottom encoders may be controlled by the same controller as the verticalencoder. The bottom encoders may be controlled by a separate controller(e.g., microcontroller). The bottom encoders may adjust a position ofthe elevator mechanism, compensate for weight on the platform, and/orcompensate for thermal expansion/contraction.

In some embodiments, the build module is comprised within an externalengagement mechanism. The external engagement mechanism may include anexternal chamber (e.g., FIG. 19, 1940). The external engagementmechanism may include an automated guide vehicle (e.g., may comprisewheels, actuator, a conveyor, a joint, or a robotic arm). The externalengagement mechanism may convey the build module to engage with theprocessing chamber. Conveying may be in a vertical (e.g., FIG. 19, 1982)and/or horizontal direction. Conveying may be at an angle (e.g., planaror compound). The external engagement mechanism may comprise one or morebuild modules. The build module may be conveyer before, or after the 3Dobject is printed. Conveying may include a translation mechanism. Thetranslation mechanism may comprise an actuator (e.g., a motor). Themotor may be any motor described herein. The actuator may be anyactuator described herein. In some embodiments, the external chamber maybe reversibly coupled to the build module. In some examples, theexternal chamber may be a part of the build module. The build module(s)may be exchangeable. One or more portions (e.g., a build moduleconveying mechanism, or, a load-lock engaging mechanism) of the externalengagement mechanism may be self-locking. The external engagementmechanism may comprise one or more sensors. The one or more sensors maybe disposed along the trajectory of the external engagement mechanism.In some examples, the external engagement mechanism may comprise aredundant sensor scheme. The redundant sensor scheme may comprisecoupling at least two sensors to a component of the external engagementmechanism. The first sensor may detect a signal of opposite polaritythan the second sensor within the redundant sensor scheme. In someexamples, at least two of the sensors may be of the same type. In someexamples, at least two of the sensors may be of different types. Thesensor may be any sensor described herein (e.g., location, temperature,and/or optical sensor). The external engagement mechanism may comprise asafety mechanism. The safety mechanism may include detecting an event.The event may comprise a component failure, a manual interruption during3D printing, or a manual override signal. The safety mechanism may beactivated in response to the event. The safety mechanism may beactivated in response to a manual override mechanism. The safetymechanism may include shutting off (e.g., entire or portions of) thecontrol of the external engagement mechanism. The safety mechanism maycomprise turning off a power supply to at least one component of the 3Dprinter. For example, the safety mechanism may include shutting of atleast a portion of the external engagement mechanism. Examples ofshutting off may comprise (i) activation of a breaker mechanism, (ii)turning off the (e.g., entire) power supply to the 3D printer, or (iii)turning off one or more motors (e.g., turning off a motion component ofthe external engagement mechanism). The safety mechanism may includepreserving and/or recording a state (e.g., system state, or state of oneor more sensors) of the external engagement mechanism. The safetymechanism may facilitate restoring a state of at least one component ofthe 3D printer. For example, the safety mechanism may facilitaterestoring a state of the external engagement mechanism. In someexamples, the external engagement mechanism comprises an overridemechanism. The override mechanism may comprise one or more switches. Theswitches may be manually and/or automatically activated. The overridemechanism may release automated control (e.g., to allow manual control)of at least one component of the 3D printer (e.g., of at least onecomponent of the external engagement mechanism).

In some cases, auxiliary support(s) adhere to the upper surface of theplatform. In some examples, the auxiliary supports of the printed 3Dobject may touch the platform (e.g., the bottom of the enclosure, thesubstrate, or the base). Sometimes, the auxiliary support may adhere tothe platform. In some embodiments, the auxiliary supports are anintegral part of the platform. At times, auxiliary support(s) of theprinted 3D object, do not touch the platform. In any of the methodsdescribed herein, the printed 3D object may be supported only by thepre-transformed material within the material bed (e.g., powder bed, FIG.1, 104). Any auxiliary support(s) of the printed 3D object, if present,may be suspended adjacent to the platform. Occasionally, the platformmay have a pre-hardened (e.g., pre-solidified) amount of material. Suchpre-solidified material may provide support to the printed 3D object. Attimes, the platform may provide adherence to the material. At times, theplatform does not provide adherence to the material. The platform maycomprise elemental metal, metal alloy, elemental carbon, or ceramic. Theplatform may comprise a composite material (e.g., as disclosed herein).The platform may comprise glass, stone, zeolite, or a polymericmaterial. The polymeric material may include a hydrocarbon orfluorocarbon. The platform (e.g., base) may include Teflon. The platformmay include compartments for printing small objects. Small may berelative to the size of the enclosure. The compartments may form asmaller compartment within the enclosure, which may accommodate a layerof pre-transformed material.

In some embodiments, the energy beam projects energy to the materialbed. The apparatuses, systems, and/or methods described herein cancomprise at least one energy beam. In some cases, the apparatuses,systems, and/or methods described can comprise two, three, four, five,or more energy beams. The energy beam may include radiation comprisingelectromagnetic, electron, positron, proton, plasma, or ionic radiation.The electromagnetic beam may comprise microwave, infrared, ultraviolet,or visible radiation. The ion beam may include a cation or an anion. Theelectromagnetic beam may comprise a laser beam. The energy beam mayderive from a laser source. The energy source may be a laser source. Thelaser may comprise a fiber laser, a solid-state laser, or a diode laser.The energy source may be stationary. The energy source may not translateduring the 3D printing.

In some embodiments, the laser source comprises a Nd: YAG, Neodymium(e.g., neodymium-glass), or an Ytterbium laser. The laser may comprise acarbon dioxide laser (CO₂ laser). The laser may be a fiber laser. Thelaser may be a solid-state laser. The laser can be a diode laser. Theenergy source may comprise a diode array. The energy source may comprisea diode array laser. The laser may be a laser used for micro lasersintering. The energy beam may be any energy beam disclosed inProvisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/317,070 that is entirelyincorporated herein by reference.

In some embodiments, the energy beam (e.g., transforming energy beam)comprises a Gaussian energy beam. The energy beam may have anycross-sectional shape comprising an ellipse (e.g., circle), or a polygon(e.g., as disclosed herein). The energy beam may have a cross sectionwith a FLS (e.g., diameter) of at least about 50 micrometers (μm), 100μm, 150 μm, 200 μm, or 250 μm. The energy beam may have a cross sectionwith a FLS of at most about 60 micrometers (μm), 100 μm, 150 μm, 200 μm,or 250 μm. The energy beam may have a cross section with a FLS of anyvalue between the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 50 μm toabout 250 μm, from about 50 μm to about 150 μm, or from about 150 μm toabout 250 μm). The power per unit area of the energy beam may be atleast about 100 Watt per millimeter square (W/mm²), 200 W/mm², 300W/mm², 400 W/mm², 500 W/mm², 600 W/mm², 700 W/mm², 800 W/mm², 900 W/mm²,1000 W/mm², 2000 W/mm², 3000 W/mm², 5000 W/mm2, 7000 W/mm², or 10000W/mm². The power per unit area of the tiling energy flux may be at mostabout 110 W/mm², 200 W/mm², 300 W/mm², 400 W/mm², 500 W/mm², 600 W/mm²,700 W/mm², 800 W/mm², 900 W/mm², 1000 W/mm², 2000 W/mm², 3000 W/mm²,5000 W/mm², 7000 W/mm², or 10000 W/mm². The power per unit area of theenergy beam may be any value between the afore-mentioned values (e.g.,from about 100 W/mm² to about 3000 W/mm², from about 100 W/mm² to about5000 W/mm², from about 100 W/mm² to about 10000 W/mm², from about 100W/mm² to about 500 W/mm², from about 1000 W/mm² to about 3000 W/mm²,from about 1000 W/mm² to about 3000 W/mm², or from about 500 W/mm² toabout 1000 W/mm²). The scanning speed of the energy beam may be at leastabout 50 millimeters per second (mm/sec), 100 mm/sec, 500 mm/sec, 1000mm/sec, 2000 mm/sec, 3000 mm/sec, 4000 mm/sec, or 50000 mm/sec. Thescanning speed of the energy beam may be at most about 50 mm/sec, 100mm/sec, 500 mm/sec, 1000 mm/sec, 2000 mm/sec, 3000 mm/sec, 4000 mm/sec,or 5000 mm/sec. The scanning speed of the energy beam may any valuebetween the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 50 mm/sec to about5000 mm/sec, from about 50 mm/sec to about 3000 mm/sec, or from about2000 mm/sec to about 5000 mm/sec). The energy beam may be continuous ornon-continuous (e.g., pulsing). The energy beam may be modulated beforeand/or during the formation of a transformed material as part of the 3Dobject. The energy beam may be modulated before and/or during the 3Dprinting process.

In some embodiments, the energy beam is generated by an energy sourcehaving a power. The energy source (e.g., laser) may have a power of atleast about 10 Watt (W), 30 W, 50 W, 80 W, 100 W, 120 W, 150 W, 200 W,250 W, 300 W, 350 W, 400 W, 500 W, 750 W, 800 W, 900 W, 1000 W, 1500 W,2000 W, 3000 W, or 4000 W. The energy beam may have a power of at mostabout 10 W, 30 W, 50 W, 80 W, 100 W, 120 W, 150 W, 200 W, 250 W, 300 W,350 W, 400 W, 500 W, 750 W, 800 W, 900 W, 1000 W, 1500, 2000 W, 3000 W,or 4000 W. The energy source may have a power between any of theafore-mentioned energy source power values (e.g., from about 10 W toabout 100 W, from about 100 W to about 1000 W, or from about 1000 W toabout 4000 W). The energy beam may derive from an electron gun. Theenergy beam may include a pulsed energy beam, a continuous wave energybeam, or a quasi-continuous wave energy beam. The pulse energy beam mayhave a repetition frequency of at least about 1 Kilo Hertz (KHz), 2 KHz,3 KHz, 4 KHz, 5 KHz, 6 KHz, 7 KHz, 8 KHz, 9 KHz, 10 KHz, 20 KHz, 30 KHz,40 KHz, 50 KHz, 60 KHz, 70 KHz, 80 KHz, 90 KHz, 100 KHz, 150 KHz, 200KHz, 250 KHz, 300 KHz, 350 KHz, 400 KHz, 450 KHz, 500 KHz, 550 KHz, 600KHz, 700 KHz, 800 KHz, 900 KHz, 1 Mega Hertz (MHz), 2 MHz, 3 MHz, 4 MHz,or 5 MHz. The pulse energy beam may have a repetition frequency of atmost about 1 Kilo Hertz (KHz), 2 KHz, 3 KHz, 4 KHz, 5 KHz, 6 KHz, 7 KHz,8 KHz, 9 KHz, 10 KHz, 20 KHz, 30 KHz, 40 KHz, 50 KHz, 60 KHz, 70 KHz, 80KHz, 90 KHz, 100 KHz, 150 KHz, 200 KHz, 250 KHz, 300 KHz, 350 KHz, 400KHz, 450 KHz, 500 KHz, 550 KHz, 600 KHz, 700 KHz, 800 KHz, 900 KHz, 1Mega Hertz (MHz), 2 MHz, 3 MHz, 4 MHz, or 5 MHz. The pulse energy beammay have a repetition frequency between any of the afore-mentionedrepetition frequencies (e.g., from about 1 KHz to about 5 MHz, fromabout 1 KHz to about 1 MHz, or from about 1 MHz to about 5 MHz).

In some embodiments, the methods, apparatuses and/or systems disclosedherein comprise Q-switching, mode coupling or mode locking to effectuatethe pulsing energy beam. The apparatus or systems disclosed herein maycomprise an on/off switch, a modulator, or a chopper to effectuate thepulsing energy beam. The on/off switch can be manually or automaticallycontrolled. The switch may be controlled by the control system. Theswitch may alter the “pumping power” of the energy beam. The energy beammay be at times focused, non-focused, or defocused. In some instances,the defocus is substantially zero (e.g., the beam is non-focused).

In some embodiments, the energy source(s) projects energy using a DLPmodulator, a one-dimensional scanner, a two-dimensional scanner, or anycombination thereof. The energy source(s) can be stationary ortranslatable. The energy source(s) can translate vertically,horizontally, or in an angle (e.g., planar or compound angle). Theenergy source(s) can be modulated. The energy beam(s) emitted by theenergy source(s) can be modulated. The modulator can include anamplitude modulator, phase modulator, or polarization modulator. Themodulation may alter the intensity of the energy beam. The modulationmay alter the current supplied to the energy source (e.g., directmodulation). The modulation may affect the energy beam (e.g., externalmodulation such as external light modulator). The modulation may includedirect modulation (e.g., by a modulator). The modulation may include anexternal modulator. The modulator can include an acousto-optic modulatoror an electro-optic modulator. The modulator can comprise an absorptivemodulator or a refractive modulator. The modulation may alter theabsorption coefficient the material that is used to modulate the energybeam. The modulator may alter the refractive index of the material thatis used to modulate the energy beam.

In some examples, the energy beam(s), energy source(s), and/or theplatform of the energy beam translates. The energy beam(s), energysource(s), and/or the platform of the energy beam array can betranslated via a galvanometer scanner, a polygon, a mechanical stage(e.g., X-Y stage), a piezoelectric device, gimbal, or any combination ofthereof. The galvanometer may comprise a mirror. The galvanometerscanner may comprise a two-axis galvanometer scanner. The scanner maycomprise a modulator (e.g., as described herein). The scanner maycomprise a polygonal mirror. The scanner can be the same scanner for twoor more energy sources and/or beams. At least two (e.g., each) energysource and/or beam may have a separate scanner. The energy sources canbe translated independently of each other. In some cases, at least twoenergy sources and/or beams can be translated at different rates, and/oralong different paths. For example, the movement of a first energysource may be faster as compared to the movement of a second energysource. The systems and/or apparatuses disclosed herein may comprise oneor more shutters (e.g., safety shutters), on/off switches, or apertures.

In some examples, the energy beam comprises an energy beam footprint onthe target surface. The energy beam (e.g., laser) may have a FLS (e.g.,a diameter) of its footprint on the on the exposed surface of thematerial bed of at least about 1 micrometer (μm), 5 μm, 10 μm, 20 μm, 30μm, 40 μm, 50 μm, 60 μm, 70 μm, 80 μm, 90 μm, 100 μm, 200 μm, 300 μm,400 μm, or 500 μm. The energy beam may have a FLS on the layer of itfootprint on the exposed surface of the material bed of at most about 1μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 20 μm, 30 μm, 40 μm, 50 μm, 60 μm, 70 μm, 80 μm, 90 μm,100 μm, 200 μm, 300 μm, 400 μm, or 500 μm. The energy beam may have aFLS on the exposed surface of the material bed between any of theafore-mentioned energy beam FLS values (e.g., from about 5 μm to about500 μm, from about 5 μm to about 50 μm, or from about 50 μm to about 500μm). The beam may be a focused beam. The beam may be a dispersed beam.The beam may be an aligned beam. The apparatus and/or systems describedherein may further comprise a focusing coil, a deflection coil, or anenergy beam power supply. The defocused energy beam may have a FLS of atleast about 1 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, or 100 mm.The defocused energy beam may have a FLS of at most about 1 mm, 5 mm, 10mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, or 100 mm. The energy beam may have adefocused cross-sectional FLS on the layer of pre-transformed materialbetween any of the afore-mentioned energy beam FLS values (e.g., fromabout 5 mm to about 100mm, from about 5 mm to about 50 mm, or from about50 mm to about 100 mm).

The power supply to any of the components described herein can besupplied by a grid, generator, local, or any combination thereof. Thepower supply can be from renewable or non-renewable sources. Therenewable sources may comprise solar, wind, hydroelectric, or biofuel.The powder supply can comprise rechargeable batteries.

In some embodiments, the energy beam comprises an exposure time (e.g.,the amount of time that the energy beam may be exposed to a portion ofthe target surface). The exposure time of the energy beam may be atleast 1 microsecond (μs), 5 μs, 10 μs, 20 μs, 30 μs, 40 μs, 50 μs, 60μs, 70 μs, 80 μs, 90 μs, 100 μs, 200 μs, 300 μs, 400 μs, 500 μs, 800 μs,or 1000 μs. The exposure time of the energy beam may be most about 1 μs,5 μs, 10 μs, 20 μs, 30 μs, 40 μs, 50 μs, 60 μs, 70 μs, 80 μs, 90 μs, 100μs, 200 μs, 300 μs, 400 μs, 500 μs, 800 μs, or 1000 μs. The exposuretime of the energy beam may be any value between the afore-mentionedexposure time values (e.g., from about 1 μs to about 1000 μs, from about1 μs to about 200 μs, from about 1 μs to about 500 μs, from about 200 μsto about 500 μs, or from about 500 μs to about 1000 μs).

In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises a controller. Thecontroller may control one or more characteristics of the energy beam(e.g., variable characteristics). The control of the energy beam mayallow a low degree of material evaporation during the 3D printingprocess. For example, controlling on or more energy beam characteristicsmay (e.g., substantially) reduce the amount of spatter generated duringthe 3D printing process. The low degree of material evaporation may bemeasured in grams of evaporated material and compared to a Kilogram ofhardened material formed as part of the 3D object. The low degree ofmaterial evaporation may be evaporation of at most about 0.25 grams(gr.), 0.5 gr, 1 gr, 2 gr, 5 gr, 10 gr, 15 gr, 20 gr, 30 gr, or 50 grper every Kilogram of hardened material formed as part of the 3D object.The low degree of material evaporation per every Kilogram of hardenedmaterial formed as part of the 3D object may be any value between theafore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 0.25 gr to about 50 gr, fromabout 0.25 gr to about 30 gr, from about 0.25 gr to about 10 gr, fromabout 0.25 gr to about 5 gr, or from about 0.25 gr to about 2 gr).

The methods, systems and/or the apparatus described herein comprise atleast one energy source. In some cases, the system can comprise two,three, four, five, or more energy sources. An energy source can be asource configured to deliver energy to an area (e.g., a confined area).An energy source can deliver energy to the confined area throughradiative heat transfer.

The energy source can supply any of the energies described herein (e.g.,energy beams). The energy source may deliver energy to a point or to anarea. The energy source may include an electron gun source. The energysource may include a laser source. The energy source may comprise anarray of lasers. In an example, a laser can provide light energy at apeak wavelength of at least about 100 nanometer (nm), 500 nm, 1000 nm,1010 nm, 1020 nm, 1030 nm, 1040 nm, 1050 nm, 1060 nm, 1070 nm, 1080 nm,1090 nm, 1100 nm, 1200 nm, 1500 nm, 1600 nm, 1700 nm, 1800 nm, 1900 nm,or 2000 nm. In an example, a laser can provide light energy at a peakwavelength of at most about 100 nanometer (nm), 500 nm, 1000 nm, 1010nm, 1020 nm, 1030 nm, 1040 nm, 1050 nm, 1060 nm, 1070 nm, 1080 nm, 1090nm, 1100 nm, 1200 nm, 1500 nm, 1600 nm, 1700 nm, 1800 nm, 1900 nm, or2000 nm. In an example, a laser can provide light energy at a peakwavelength between the afore-mentioned peak wavelengths (e.g., from 100nm to 2000 nm, from 100 nm to 1100 nm, or from 1000 nm to 2000 nm). Theenergy beam can be incident on the top surface of the material bed. Theenergy beam can be incident on, or be directed to, a specified area ofthe material bed over a specified time period. The energy beam can besubstantially perpendicular to the top (e.g., exposed) surface of thematerial bed. The material bed can absorb the energy from the energybeam (e.g., incident energy beam) and, as a result, a localized regionof the material in the material bed can increase in temperature. Theincrease in temperature may transform the material within the materialbed. The increase in temperature may heat and transform the materialwithin the material bed. In some embodiments, the increase intemperature may heat and not transform the material within the materialbed. The increase in temperature may heat the material within thematerial bed.

In some embodiments, the energy beam and/or source are moveable suchthat it can translate relative to the material bed. The energy beamand/or source can be moved by a scanner. The movement of the energy beamand/or source can comprise utilization of a scanner.

In some embodiments, the 3D printing system includes at least two energybeams. At one point in time, and/or (e.g., substantially) during theentire build of the 3D object: At least two of the energy beams and/orsources can be translated independently of each other or in concert witheach other. At least two of the multiplicity of energy beams can betranslated independently of each other or in concert with each other. Insome cases, at least two of the energy beams can be translated atdifferent rates such that the movement of the one is faster compared tothe movement of at least one other energy beam. In some cases, at leasttwo of the energy sources can be translated at different rates such thatthe movement of the one energy source is faster compared to the movementof at least another energy source. In some cases, at least two of theenergy sources (e.g., all of the energy sources) can be translated atdifferent paths. In some cases, at least two of the energy sources canbe translated at substantially identical paths. In some cases, at leasttwo of the energy sources can follow one another in time and/or space.In some cases, at least two of the energy sources translatesubstantially parallel to each other in time and/or space. The power perunit area of at least two of the energy beam may be (e.g.,substantially) identical. The power per unit area of at least one of theenergy beams may be varied (e.g., during the formation of the 3Dobject). The power per unit area of at least one of the energy beams maybe different. The power per unit area of at least one of the energybeams may be different. The power per unit area of one energy beam maybe greater than the power per unit area of a second energy beam. Theenergy beams may have the same or different wavelengths. A first energybeam may have a wavelength that is smaller or larger than the wavelengthof a second energy beam. The energy beams can derive from the sameenergy source. At least one of the energy beams can derive fromdifferent energy sources. The energy beams can derive from differentenergy sources. At least two of the energy beams may have the same power(e.g., at one point in time, and/or (e.g., substantially) during theentire build of the 3D object). At least one of the beams may have adifferent power (e.g., at one point in time, and/or substantially duringthe entire build of the 3D object). The beams may have different powers(e.g., at one point in time, and/or (e.g., substantially) during theentire build of the 3D object). At least two of the energy beams maytravel at (e.g., substantially) the same velocity. At least one of theenergy beams may travel at different velocities. The velocity of travel(e.g. speed) of at least two energy beams may be (e.g., substantially)constant. The velocity of travel of at least two energy beams may bevaried (e.g., during the formation of the 3D object or a portionthereof). The travel may refer to a travel relative to (e.g., on) theexposed surface of the material bed (e.g., powder material). The travelmay refer to a travel close to the exposed surface of the material bed.The travel may be within the material bed. The at least one energy beamand/or source may travel relative to the material bed.

In some embodiments, the energy (e.g., energy beam) travels in a path.The path may comprise a hatch. The path of the energy beam may compriserepeating a path. For example, the first energy may repeat its own path.The second energy may repeat its own path, or the path of the firstenergy. The repetition may comprise a repetition of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7,8, 9, 10 times or more. The energy may follow a path comprising parallellines. For example, FIG. 15, 1515 or 1514 show paths that compriseparallel lines. The lines may be hatch lines. The distance between eachof the parallel lines or hatch lines, may be at least about 1 μm, 5 μm,10 μm, 20 μm, 30 μm, 40 μm, 50 μm, 60 μm, 70 μm, 80 μm, 90 μm, or more.The distance between each of the parallel lines or hatch lines, may beat most about 1 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 20 μm, 30 μm, 40 μm, 50 μm, 60 μm, 70μm, 80 μm, 90 μm, or less. The distance between each of the parallellines or hatch lines may be any value between any of the afore-mentioneddistance values (e.g., from about 1 μm to about 90 μm, from about 1 μmto about 50 μm, or from about 40 μm to about 90 μm). The distancebetween the parallel or parallel lines or hatch lines may besubstantially the same in every layer (e.g., plane) of transformedmaterial. The distance between the parallel lines or hatch lines in onelayer (e.g., plane) of transformed material may be different than thedistance between the parallel lines or hatch lines respectively inanother layer (e.g., plane) of transformed material within the 3Dobject. The distance between the parallel lines or hatch lines portionswithin a layer (e.g., plane) of transformed material may besubstantially constant. The distance between the parallel lines or hatchlines within a layer (e.g., plane) of transformed material may bevaried. The distance between a first pair of parallel lines or hatchlines within a layer (e.g., plane) of transformed material may bedifferent than the distance between a second pair of parallel lines orhatch lines within a layer (e.g., plane) of transformed materialrespectively. The first energy beam may follow a path comprising twohatch lines or paths that cross in at least one point. The hatch linesor paths may be straight or curved. The hatch lines or paths may bewinding FIG. 15, 1510 or 1511 show examples of winding paths. The firstenergy beam may follow a hatch line or path comprising a U-shaped turn(e.g., FIG. 15, 1510). The first energy beam may follow a hatch line orpath devoid of U shaped turns (e.g., FIG. 15, 1512).

In some embodiments, the formation of the 3D object includestransforming (e.g., fusing, binding, or connecting) the pre-transformedmaterial (e.g., powder material) using an energy beam. The energy beammay be projected on to a particular area of the material bed, thuscausing the pre-transformed material to transform. The energy beam maycause at least a portion of the pre-transformed material to transformfrom its present state of matter to a different state of matter. Forexample, the pre-transformed material may transform at least in part(e.g., completely) from a solid to a liquid state. The energy beam maycause at least a portion of the pre-transformed material to chemicallytransform. For example, the energy beam may cause chemical bonds to formor break. The chemical transformation may be an isomeric transformation.The transformation may comprise a magnetic transformation or anelectronic transformation. The transformation may comprise coagulationof the material, cohesion of the material, or accumulation of thematerial.

In some examples, the methods described herein further compriserepeating the operations of material deposition and materialtransformation operations to produce a 3D object (or a portion thereof)by at least one 3D printing (e.g., additive manufacturing) method. Forexample, the methods described herein may further comprise repeating theoperations of depositing a layer of pre-transformed material andtransforming at least a portion of the pre-transformed material toconnect to the previously formed 3D object portion (e.g., repeating the3D printing cycle), thus forming at least a portion of a 3D object. Thetransforming operation may comprise utilizing an energy beam totransform the material. In some instances, the energy beam is utilizedto transform at least a portion of the material bed (e.g., utilizing anyof the methods described herein).

In some examples, the transforming energy is provided by an energysource. The transforming energy may comprise an energy beam. The energysource can produce an energy beam. The energy beam may include aradiation comprising electromagnetic, electron, positron, proton,plasma, or ionic radiation. The electromagnetic beam may comprisemicrowave, infrared, ultraviolet, or visible radiation. The ion beam mayinclude a charged particle beam. The ion beam may include a cation, oran anion. The electromagnetic beam may comprise a laser beam. The lasermay comprise a fiber, or a solid-state laser beam. The energy source mayinclude a laser. The energy source may include an electron gun. Theenergy depletion may comprise heat depletion. The energy depletion maycomprise cooling. The energy may comprise an energy flux (e.g., energybeam. E.g., radiated energy). The energy may comprise an energy beam.The energy may be the transforming energy. The energy may be a warmingenergy that is not able to transform the deposited pre-transformedmaterial (e.g., in the material bed). The warming energy may be able toraise the temperature of the deposited pre-transformed material. Theenergy beam may comprise energy provided at a (e.g., substantially)constant or varied energy beam characteristic. The energy beam maycomprise energy provided at (e.g., substantially) constant or variedenergy beam characteristic, depending on the position of the generatedhardened material within the 3D object. The varied energy beamcharacteristic may comprise energy flux, rate, intensity, wavelength,amplitude, power, cross-section, or time exerted for the energy process(e.g., transforming or heating). The energy beam cross-section may bethe average (or mean) FLS of the cross section of the energy beam on thelayer of material (e.g., powder). The FLS may be a diameter, a sphericalequivalent diameter, a length, a height, a width, or diameter of abounding circle. The FLS may be the larger of a length, a height, and awidth of a 3D form. The FLS may be the larger of a length and a width ofa substantially two-dimensional (2D) form (e.g., wire, or 3D surface).

In some examples, the energy beam follows a path. The path of the energybeam may be a vector. The path of the energy beam may comprise a raster,a vector, or any combination thereof. The path of the energy beam maycomprise an oscillating pattern. The path of the energy beam maycomprise a zigzag, wave (e.g., curved, triangular, or square), or curvepattern. The curved wave may comprise a sine or cosine wave. The path ofthe energy beam may comprise a sub-pattern. The path of the energy beammay comprise an oscillating (e.g., zigzag), wave (e.g., curved,triangular, or square), and/or curved sub-pattern. The curved wave maycomprise a sine or cosine wave. FIG. 14 shows an example of a path 1401of an energy beam comprising a zigzag sub-pattern (e.g., FIG. 14, 1402shown as an expansion (e.g., blow-up) of a portion of the path 1401).The sub-path of the energy beam may comprise a wave (e.g., sine orcosine wave) pattern. The sub-path may be a small path that forms thelarge path. The sub-path may be a component (e.g., a portion) of thelarge path. The path that the energy beam follows may be a predeterminedpath. A model may predetermine the path by utilizing a controller or anindividual (e.g., human). The controller may comprise a processor. Theprocessor may comprise a computer, computer program, drawing or drawingdata, statue or statue data, or any combination thereof

In some embodiments, the path comprises successive lines. The successivelines may touch each other. The successive lines may overlap each otherin at least one point. The successive lines may substantially overlapeach other. The successive lines may be spaced by a first distance(e.g., hatch spacing). FIG. 15 shows an example of a path 1514 thatincludes five hatches wherein each two immediately adjacent hatches areseparated by a spacing distance. The hatch spacing may be any hatchspacing disclosed in Patent Application serial number PCT/US16/34857filed on May 27, 2016, titled “THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING ANDTHREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS FORMED USING THE SAME” that is entirelyincorporated herein by reference.

In some examples, the methods, apparatuses, software, and/or systemsdescribed herein comprise a 3D printing process (e.g., addedmanufacturing) including at least one modification. The modification mayinclude changes to the (e.g., a conventional) 3D printing process, 3Dmodel of the desired 3D object, 3D printing instructions, or anycombination thereof. The changes may comprise subtraction or addition.The printing instructions may include instruction given to the radiatedenergy (e.g., energy beam). The instructions can be given to acontroller that controls (e.g., regulates) the energy beam and/or energysource. The modification can be in the energy power, frequency, dutycycle, and/or any other modulation parameter. The modification maycomprise varying an energy beam characteristic. The modification caninclude 3D printing process modification. The modification can include acorrection (e.g., a geometrical correction) to a model of a desired 3Dobject. The geometric correction may comprise duplicating a path in amodel of the 3D object with a vertical, lateral, or angular (e.g.,planer or compound angle) change in position. The modifications may beany modification disclosed in Patent Application serial numberPCT/US16/34857 or in Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/325,402filed on Apr. 20, 2016, titled “METHODS, SYSTEMS, APPARATUSES, ANDSOFTWARE FOR ACCURATE THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING,” that are bothincorporated by reference herein in their entirety. The geometriccorrection may comprise expanding a path in a model of the 3D object ina vertical, lateral, or angular (e.g., planar or compound angle)position. Angular relocation may comprise rotation. The geometriccorrection may comprise altering (e.g., expanding or shrinking) a pathin a model of the 3D object in a vertical, lateral, or angular (e.g.,planer or compound angle) position. The modification can include avariation in a characteristic of the energy (e.g., energy beam) using inthe 3D printing process, a variation in the path that the energy travelson (or within) a layer of material (in a material bed) to be transformedand form the 3D object. The layer of material can be a layer of powdermaterial. The modification may depend on a selected position within thegenerated 3D object, such as an edge, a kink, a suspended structure, abridge, a lower surface, or any combination thereof. The modificationmay depend on a hindrance for (e.g., resistance to) energy depletionwithin the 3D object as it is being generated, or a hindrance for (e.g.,resistance to) energy depletion in the surrounding pre-transformedmaterial (e.g., powder material). The modification may depend on adegree of packing of the pre-transformed material within a material bed(e.g., a powder material within a powder bed). For example, themodification may depend on the density of the powder material within apowder bed. The powder material may be unused, recycled, new, or aged.

In some embodiments, the methods, apparatuses, software, and/or systemscomprise corrective deformation of a 3D model of the desired 3Dstructure, that substantially result in the desired 3D structure. Thecorrective deformation may take into account features comprising stresswithin the forming structure, deformation of transformed material as ithardens to form at least a portion of the 3D object, the manner oftemperature depletion during the printing process, the manner ofdeformation of the transformed material as a function of the density ofthe pre-transformed material within the material bed (e.g., powdermaterial within a powder bed). The modification may comprise alterationof a path of a cross section (or portion thereof) in the 3D model thatis used in the 3D printing instructions. The alteration of the path maycomprise alteration of the path filling at least a portion of the crosssection (e.g., hatches). The alteration of the hatches may comprisealteration of the direction of hatches, the density of the hatch lines,the length of the hatch lines, and/or the shape of the hatch lines. Themodification may comprise alteration of the thickness of the transformedmaterial. The modification may comprise varying at least a portion of across-section of the 3D model (e.g., that is used in the 3D printinginstructions) by an angle, and/or inflicting to at least a portion of across section, a radius of curvature. The angle can be planer orcompound angle. The radius of curvature may arise from a bending of atleast a portion of the cross section of a 3D model. FIG. 16 shows anexample of a vertical cross section of a layered object showing layer #6of 1612 having a curvature, which curvature has a radius of curvature.The radius of curvature, “r,” of a curve at a point can be a measure ofthe radius of the circular arc (e.g., FIG. 16, 1616) which bestapproximates the curve at that point. FIG. 16 shows an example of avertical cross section of a 3D object 1612 comprising planar layers(layers numbers 1-4) and non-planar layers (e.g., layers numbers 5-6)that have a radius of curvature. In FIGS. 16, 1616 and 1617 aresuper-positions of curved layer on a circle 1615 having a radius ofcurvature “r.” The one or more layers may have a radius of curvatureequal to the radius of curvature of the layer surface. The radius ofcurvature can be the inverse of the curvature. In the case of a 3D curve(also herein a “space curve”), the radius of curvature may be the lengthof the curvature vector. The curvature vector can comprise of acurvature (e.g., the inverse of the radius of curvature) having aparticular direction. For example, the particular direction can be thedirection towards the platform (e.g., designated herein as negativecurvature), or away from the platform (e.g., designated herein aspositive curvature). For example, the particular direction can be thedirection towards the direction of the gravitational field (e.g.,designated herein as negative curvature), or opposite to the directionof the gravitational field (e.g., designated herein as positivecurvature). A curve (also herein a “curved line”) can be an objectsimilar to a line that is not required to be straight. A straight linecan be a special case of curved line wherein the curvature is (e.g.,substantially) zero. A line of substantially zero curvature has a (e.g.,substantially) infinite radius of curvature. A curve can be in twodimensions (e.g., vertical cross section of a plane), or inthree-dimension (e.g., curvature of a plane). The curve may represent across section of a curved plane. A straight line may represent a crosssection of a flat (e.g., planar) plane.

In some examples, the path of the transforming energy deviates. The pathof the transforming energy may deviate at least in part from a crosssection of a desired 3D object. In some instances, the generated 3Dobject (e.g., substantially) corresponds to the desired 3D object. Insome instances, the transforming energy beam follows a path that differsfrom a cross section of a model of the desired 3D object (e.g., adeviated path), to form a transformed material. When that transformedmaterial hardens, the hardened transformed material may (e.g.,substantially) correspond to the respective cross section of a model ofthe desired 3D object. In some instances, when that transformed materialhardens, the hardened material may not correspond to the respectivecross section of a model of the desired 3D object. In some instances,when that transformed material hardens, the hardened transformedmaterial may not correspond to the respective cross section of a modelof the desired 3D object, however the accumulated transformed material(e.g., accumulated as it forms a plurality of layers of hardenedmaterial) may (e.g., substantially) correspond to the desired 3D object.In some instances, when that transformed material hardens, theaccumulated hardened material that forms the generated 3D object (e.g.,over several 3D printing cycles) substantially corresponds to thedesired 3D object. The deviation from the path may comprise a deviationbetween different cross-sections of the desired 3D object. The deviationmay comprise a deviation within a cross-section of the desired 3Dobject. The path can comprise a path section that is larger than acorresponding path section in the cross section of the desired 3Dobject. Larger may be larger within the plane of the cross section(e.g., horizontally larger) and/or outside the plane of the crosssection (e.g., vertically larger). The path may comprise a path sectionthat is smaller than a respective path section in the cross section of amodel of the desired 3D object. Smaller may be within the plane of thecross section (e.g., horizontally smaller) and/or outside the plane ofthe cross section (e.g., vertically smaller).

In some embodiments, the transformed material deforms upon hardening(e.g., cooling). The deformation of the hardened material may beanticipated. Sometimes, the hardened material may be generated such thatthe transformed material may deviate from its intended structure, whichsubsequently forming hardened material therefrom assumes the intendedstructure. The intended structure may be devoid of deformation, or mayhave a (e.g., substantially) reduced amount of deformation in relationto its intended use. Such corrective deviation from the intendedstructure of the tile is termed herein as “geometric correction.” FIG.10 depicts an example of a transformed material 1001 that hardened intoa hardened material 1002, which hardened material is devoid of bendingdeformation.

In some examples, a newly formed layer of material (e.g., comprisingtransformed material) reduces in volume during its hardening (e.g., bycooling). Such reduction in volume (e.g., shrinkage) may cause adeformation in the desired 3D object. The deformation may includecracks, and/or tears in the newly formed layer and/or in other (e.g.,adjacent) layers. The deformation may include geometric deformation ofthe 3D object or at least a portion thereof. The newly formed layer canbe a portion of a 3D object. The one or more layers that form the 3Dprinted object (e.g., sequentially) may be (e.g., substantially)parallel to the building platform. An angle may be formed between alayer of hardened material of the 3D printed object and the platform.The angle may be measured relative to the average layering plane of thelayer of hardened material. The platform (e.g., building platform) mayinclude the base, substrate, or bottom of the enclosure. The buildingplatform may be a carrier plate. FIG. 12 shows an example of a 3D object1202 formed by sequential binding of layers of hardened materialadjacent to a platform 1203. The average layering plane of the layers ofhardened material forms an angle (e.g., beta) with a normal 1204 to thelayering plane 1206.

In an aspect provided herein is a 3D object comprising a layer ofhardened material generated by at least one 3D printing method describedherein, wherein the layer of material (e.g., hardened) is different froma corresponding cross section of a model of the 3D object. For example,the generated layers differ from the proposed slices. The layer ofmaterial within a 3D object can be indicated by the microstructure ofthe material. The material microstructures may be those disclosed inPatent Application serial number PCT/US15/36802 that is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety. The 3D model may comprise agenerated, ordered, provided, or replicated 3D model. The model may begenerated, ordered, provided, or replicated by a customer, individual,manufacturer, engineer, artist, human, computer, or software. Thesoftware can be neural network software. The 3D model can be generatedby a 3D modeling program (e.g., SolidWorks®, Google SketchUp®,SolidEdge®, Engineer®, Auto-CAD®, or I-Deas®). In some cases, the 3Dmodel can be generated from a provided sketch, image, or 3D object.

In some examples, the layer of transformed material differs from arespective slice in a model of the 3D object. The layer of transformedmaterial may differ from a respective cross section (e.g., slice) of amodel of the 3D object. The difference may be in the area of thetransformed material layer as compared to a respective cross section ofa model of the 3D object. For example, the area of the transformedmaterial layer may be smaller than the respective cross section of amodel of the 3D object. The area of the transformed material layer maybe larger than the respective cross section of a model (e.g., modelslice) of the 3D object. The area of the transformed material layer maybe a portion of the respective cross section of a model of the 3Dobject. The area of the respective cross section of a model of the 3Dobject may be divided between at least two different layers oftransformed material. The area of the transformed material layer may belarger than the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object,and may shrink to form a hardened material that is substantiallyidentical to the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object.The area of the transformed material layer may be different than therespective cross section of a model of the 3D object, and may deform toform a hardened material that is substantially identical to therespective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The layer ofhardened material may differ from a respective cross section (e.g.,slice) of a model of the 3D object. The layer of hardened material maybe (e.g., substantially) the same as a respective cross section (e.g.,slice) of a model of the 3D object. The area of the transformed materiallayer may be different than the respective cross section of a model ofthe 3D object, and may deform to form a hardened material within thegenerated 3D object, wherein the generated 3D object may besubstantially identical to the respective cross section of a model ofthe 3D object. The area of the transformed material layer may bedifferent than the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object,and may form a hardened material within the generated 3D object, whereinthe generated 3D object may be (e.g., substantially) identical to therespective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The layer ofhardened material may differ from a respective cross section of a modelof the 3D object. The difference may be in the area of the hardenedmaterial layer as compared to a respective cross section of a model ofthe 3D object. For example, the area of the hardened material layer maybe smaller than the respective cross section of a model of the 3Dobject. The area of the hardened material layer may be larger than therespective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The area of thehardened material layer may be a portion of the respective cross sectionof a model of the 3D object. The area of the respective cross section ofa model of the 3D object may be divided between at least two differentlayers of hardened material. The area of the hardened material layer maybe different than the respective cross section of a model of the 3Dobject, and the generated 3D object may be substantially identical tothe respective cross section of a model of the 3D object.

In some embodiments, the material microstructure of the 3D objectreveals the manner in which the 3D object was generated. The materialmicrostructure in a hardened material layer within the 3D object mayreveal the manner in which the 3D object was generated. Themicrostructure of the material in a hardened material layer within the3D object may reveal the manner in which the layer within the 3D objectwas generated. The microstructure may comprise the grain-structure, orthe melt-pool structure. For example, the path in which the energytraveled and transformed the pre-transformed material to form thehardened material within the printed 3D object may be indicated by themicrostructure of the material within the 3D object. FIG. 13C, 1301shows an example of a 3D object placed in its natural position, andrests on a plane 1303 that is normal to the field of gravity. Thenatural position may be with respect to gravity (e.g., a stableposition), with respect to everyday position of the desired object asintended (e.g., for its use), or with respect to a 3D model of thedesired 3D object. The object 1301 was printed in this position, asillustrated by the parallel layering planes (e.g., vertical crosssection FIG. 13C, 1305 of a layering plane). FIG. 13C, 1302 shows anexample of the desired 3D object 1301 that was printed as a 3D object1302 that was tilted by an angle alpha (a) with respect to the plane1303. The object 1302 was printed in this position, as illustrated bythe parallel layering planes (e.g., vertical cross section FIG. 13C,1306 of a layering plane). When the 3D object is subsequently retrieved,it is placed in its natural position, and substantially corresponds tothe desired 3D object. The microstructure of the 3D object may revealthat it was printed in as a tilted 3D object. FIG. 13C, 1301 shows anexample of a 3D object placed in its natural position with respect tothe field of gravity, and rests on a plane 1303 that is normal to thefield of gravity. The object 1304 was printed in a tilted position, asillustrated by the parallel layering planes (e.g., vertical crosssection FIG. 13C, 1307 of a layering plane). FIG. 13A and 13B showexample of a vertical cross section of a 3D object disclosed herein. Thelines in FIG. 13B, 1320 illustrate the average layering planes. The 3Dobject is printed as a tilted 3D object (or part thereof) forming anacute angle alpha with the plane normal to the field of gravity, theplane of natural position of the desired 3D object, or the buildingplatform. The angle alpha may be at least 0 degrees (°), 0.5°, 1°, 1.5°,2°, 2.5°, 3°, 3.5°, 4°, 4.5°, 5°, 5.5°, 6°, 6.5°, 7°, 7.5°, 8°, 8.5°,9°, 9.5°, 10°, 11°, 12°, 13°, 14°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, or 45°.The angle alpha may be at most 0.5°, 1°, 1.5°, 2°, 2.5°, 3°, 3.5°, 4°,4.5°, 5°, 5.5°, 6°, 6.5°, 7°, 7.5°, 8°, 8.5°, 9°, 9.5°, 10°, 11°, 12°,13°, 14°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, or 45°. The angle alpha may beany value between the afore-mentioned alpha values (e.g., from about 0°to about 45°, from about 0° to about 30°, or from about 0° to about 5°.

In some examples, a portion of the generated 3D object is printed withauxiliary support. The term “auxiliary support,” as used herein,generally refers to at least one feature that is a part of a printed 3Dobject, but not part of the desired, intended, designed, ordered, and/orfinal 3D object. Auxiliary support may provide structural support duringand/or subsequent to the formation of the 3D object. The auxiliarysupport may be anchored to the enclosure. For example, an auxiliarysupport may be anchored to the platform (e.g., building platform), tothe side walls of the material bed, to a wall of the enclosure, to anobject (e.g., stationary, or semi-stationary) within the enclosure, orany combination thereof. The auxiliary support may be the platform(e.g., the base, the substrate, or the bottom of the enclosure). Theauxiliary support may enable the removal or energy from the 3D object(e.g., or a portion thereof) that is being formed. The removal of energy(e.g., heat) may be during and/or after the formation of the 3D object.Examples of auxiliary support comprise a fin (e.g., heat fin), anchor,handle, pillar, column, frame, footing, wall, platform, or anotherstabilization feature. In some instances, the auxiliary support may bemounted, clamped, or situated on the platform. The auxiliary support canbe anchored to the building platform, to the sides (e.g., walls) of thebuilding platform, to the enclosure, to an object (stationary orsemi-stationary) within the enclosure, or any combination thereof

In some examples, the generated 3D object is printed without auxiliarysupport. In some examples, overhanging feature of the generated 3Dobject can be printed without (e.g., without any) auxiliary support. Thegenerated object can be devoid of auxiliary supports. The generatedobject may be suspended (e.g., float anchorlessly) in the material bed(e.g., powder bed). The term “anchorlessly,” as used herein, generallyrefers to without or in the absence of an anchor. In some examples, anobject is suspended in a powder bed anchorlessly without attachment to asupport. For example, the object floats in the powder bed. The generated3D object may be suspended in the layer of pre-transformed material(e.g., powder material). The pre-transformed material (e.g., powdermaterial) can offer support to the printed 3D object (or the objectduring its generation). Sometimes, the generated 3D object may compriseone or more auxiliary supports. The auxiliary support may be suspendedin the pre-transformed material (e.g., powder material). The auxiliarysupport may provide weights or stabilizers. The auxiliary support can besuspended in the material bed within the layer of pre-transformedmaterial in which the 3D object (or a portion thereof) has been formed.The auxiliary support (e.g., one or more auxiliary supports) can besuspended in the pre-transformed material within a layer ofpre-transformed material other than the one in which the 3D object (or aportion thereof) has been formed (e.g., a previously deposited layer of(e.g., powder) material). The auxiliary support may touch the platform.The auxiliary support may be suspended in the material bed (e.g., powdermaterial) and not touch the platform. The auxiliary support may beanchored to the platform. The distance between any two auxiliarysupports can be at least about 1 millimeter, 1.3 millimeters (mm), 1.5mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 3mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 41 mm, or 45mm. The distance between any two auxiliary supports can be at most 1millimeter, 1.3 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm,40 mm, 41 mm, or 45 mm. The distance between any two auxiliary supportscan be any value in between the afore-mentioned distances (e.g., fromabout 1 mm to about 45 mm, from about 1 mm to about 11 mm, from about2.2 mm to about 15 mm, or from about 10 mm to about 45 mm). At times, asphere intersecting an exposed surface of the 3D object may be devoid ofauxiliary support. The sphere may have a radius XY that is equal to thedistance between any two auxiliary supports mentioned herein. FIG. 11shows an example of a top view of a 3D object that has an exposedsurface. The exposed surface includes an intersection area of a spherehaving a radius XY, which intersection area is devoid of auxiliarysupport.

In some examples, the diminished number of auxiliary supports or lack ofauxiliary support, facilitates a 3D printing process that requires asmaller amount of material, produces a smaller amount of material waste,and/or requires smaller energy as compared to commercially available 3Dprinting processes. The reduced number of auxiliary supports can besmaller by at least about 1.1, 1.3, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10as compared to conventional 3D printing. The smaller amount may besmaller by any value between the aforesaid values (e.g., from about 1.1to about 10, or from about 1.5 to about 5) as compared to conventional3D printing.

In some embodiments, the generated 3D object has a surface roughnessprofile. The generated 3D object can have various surface roughnessprofiles, which may be suitable for various applications. The surfaceroughness may be the deviations in the direction of the normal vector ofa real surface from its ideal form. The surface roughness may bemeasured as the arithmetic average of the roughness profile (hereinafter“Ra”). The formed object can have a Ra value of at most about 200 μm,100 μm, 75 μm, 50 μm, 45 μm, 40 μm, 35 μm, 30 μm, 25 μm, 20 μm, 15 μm,10 μm, 7 μm, 5 μm, 3 μm, 1 μm, 500 nm, 400 nm, 300 nm,200 nm, 100 nm, 50nm, 40 nm, or 30 nm. The 3D object can have a Ra value between any ofthe afore-mentioned Ra values (e.g., from about 50 μm to about 1 μm,from about 100 μm to about 4 μm, from about 30 μm to about 3 μm, fromabout 60 nm to about 1 μm, or from about 80 nm to about 0.5 μm). The Ravalues may be measured by a contact or by a non-contact method. The Ravalues may be measured by a roughness tester and/or by a microscopymethod (e.g., any microscopy method described herein). The measurementsmay be conducted at ambient temperatures (e.g., R. T.). The roughness(e.g., as Ra values) may be measured by a contact or by a non-contactmethod. The roughness measurement may comprise one or more sensors(e.g., optical sensors). The roughness measurement may comprise ametrological measurement device (e.g., using metrological sensor(s)).The roughness may be measured using an electromagnetic beam (e.g.,visible or IR).

In some embodiments, the generated 3D object (e.g., the hardened cover)is substantially smooth. The generated 3D object may have a deviationfrom an ideal planar surface (e.g., atomically flat or molecularly flat)of at most about 1.5 nanometers (nm), 2 nm, 3 nm, 4 nm, 5 nm, 10 nm,15nm, 20 nm, 25 nm, 30 nm, 35 nm, 100 nm, 300 nm, 500 nm, 1 micrometer(μm), 1.5 μm, 2 μm, 3 μm, 4 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 15 μm, 20 μm, 25 μm, 30 μm,35 μm, 100 μm, 300 μm, 500 μm, or less. The generated 3D object may havea deviation from an ideal planar surface of at least about 1.5nanometers (nm), 2 nm, 3 nm, 4 nm, 5 nm, 10 nm, 15 nm, 20 nm, 25 nm, 30nm, 35 nm, 100 nm, 300 nm, 500 nm, 1 micrometer (μm), 1.5 μm, 2 μm, 3μm, 4 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 15 μm, 20 μm, 25 μm, 30 μm, 35 μm, 100 μm, 300μm, 500 μm, or more. The generated 3D object may have a deviation froman ideal planar surface between any of the afore-mentioned deviationvalues. The generated 3D object may comprise a pore. The generated 3Dobject may comprise pores. The pores may be of an average FLS (diameteror diameter equivalent in case the pores are not spherical) of at mostabout 1.5 nanometers (nm), 2 nm, 3 nm, 4 nm, 5 nm, 10 nm, 15 nm, 20 nm,25 nm, 30 nm, 35 nm, 100 nm, 300 nm, 500 nm, 1 micrometer (μm), 1.5 μm,2 μm, 3 μm, 4 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 15 μm, 20 μm, 25 μm, 30 μm, 35 μm, 100μm, 300 μm, or 500 μm. The pores may be of an average FLS of at leastabout 1.5 nanometers (nm), 2 nm, 3 nm, 4 nm, 5 nm, 10 nm, 15 nm, 20 nm,25 nm, 30 nm, 35 nm, 100 nm, 300 nm, 500 nm, 1 micrometer (μm), 1.5 μm,2 μm, 3 μm, 4 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 15 μm, 20 μm, 25 μm, 30 μm, 35 μm, 100μm, 300 μm, or 500 μm. The pores may be of an average FLS between any ofthe afore-mentioned FLS values (e.g., from about 1 nm to about 500 μm,or from about 20 μm, to about 300 μm). The 3D object (or at least alayer thereof) may have a porosity of at most about 0.05 percent (%),0.1% 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%,6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, or 80%. The 3D object(or at least a layer thereof) may have a porosity of at least about0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%,4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, or 80%. The3D object (or at least a layer thereof) may have porosity between any ofthe afore-mentioned porosity percentages (e.g., from about 0.05% toabout 80%, from about 0.05% to about 40%, from about 10% to about 40%,or from about 40% to about 90%). In some instances, a pore may traversethe generated 3D object. For example, the pore may start at a face ofthe 3D object and end at the opposing face of the 3D object. The poremay comprise a passageway extending from one face of the 3D object andending on the opposing face of that 3D object. In some instances, thepore may not traverse the generated 3D object. The pore may form acavity in the generated 3D object. The pore may form a cavity on a faceof the generated 3D object. For example, pore may start on a face of theplane and not extend to the opposing face of that 3D object.

In some embodiments, the formed plane comprises a protrusion. Theprotrusion can be a grain, a bulge, a bump, a ridge, or an elevation.The generated 3D object may comprise protrusions. The protrusions may beof an average FLS of at most about 1.5 nanometers (nm), 2 nm, 3 nm, 4nm, 5 nm, 10 nm, 15 nm, 20 nm, 25 nm, 30 nm, 35 nm, 100 nm, 300 nm, 500nm, 1 micrometer (μm), 1.5 μm, 2 μm, 3 μm, 4 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 15 μm, 20μm, 25 μm, 30 μm, 35 μm, 100 μm, 300 μm, 500 μm, or less. Theprotrusions may be of an average FLS of at least about 1.5 nanometers(nm), 2 nm, 3 nm, 4 nm, 5 nm, 10 nm, 15 nm, 20 nm, 25 nm, 30 nm, 35 nm,100 nm, 300 nm, 500 nm, 1 micrometer (μm), 1.5 μm, 2 μm, 3 μm, 4 μm, 5μm, 10 μm, 15 μm, 20 μm, 25 μm, 30 μm, 35 μm, 100 μm, 300 μm, 500 μm, ormore. The protrusions may be of an average FLS between any of theafore-mentioned FLS values. The protrusions may constitute at most about0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%,4%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of the area of the generated 3Dobject. The protrusions may constitute at least about 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%,0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 20%,30%, 40%, or 50% of the area of the 3D object. The protrusions mayconstitute a percentage of an area of the 3D object that is between theafore-mentioned percentages of 3D object area. The protrusion may resideon any surface of the 3D object. For example, the protrusions may resideon an external surface of a 3D object. The protrusions may reside on aninternal surface (e.g., a cavity) of a 3D object. At times, the averagesize of the protrusions and/or of the holes may determine the resolutionof the printed (e.g., generated) 3D object. The resolution of theprinted 3D object may be at least about 1 micrometer, 1.3 micrometers(μm), 1.5 μm, 1.8 μm, 1.9 μm, 2.0 μm, 2.2 μm, 2.4 μm, 2.5 μm, 2.6 μm,2.7 μm, 3 μm, 4 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 20 μm, 30 μm, 40 μm, 50 μm, 60 μm, 70μm, 80 μm, 90 μm, 100 μm, 200 μm, or more. The resolution of the printed3D object may be at most about 1 micrometer, 1.3 micrometers (μm), 1.5μm, 1.8 μm, 1.9 μm, 2.0 μm, 2.2 μm, 2.4 μm, 2.5 μm, 2.6 μm, 2.7 μm, 3μm, 4 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 20 μm, 30 μm, 40 μm, 50 μm, 60 μm, 70 μm, 80 μm,90 μm, 100 μm, 200 μm, or less. The resolution of the printed 3D objectmay be any value between the above-mentioned resolution values. Attimes, the 3D object may have a material density of at least about99.9%, 99.8%, 99.7%, 99.6%, 99.5%, 99.4%, 99.3%, 99.2% 99.1%, 99%, 98%,96%, 95%, 94%, 93%, 92%, 91%, 90%, 8%, or 70%. At times, the 3D objectmay have a material density of at most about 99.5%, 99%, 98%, 96%, 95%,94%, 93%, 92%, 91%, 90%, 8%, or 70%. At times, the 3D object may have amaterial density between the afore-mentioned material densities. Theresolution of the 3D object may be at least about 100 dots per inch(dpi), 300 dpi, 600 dpi, 1200 dpi, 2400 dpi, 3600 dpi, or 4800 dpi. Theresolution of the 3D object may be at most about 100 dpi, 300 dpi, 600dpi, 1200 dpi, 2400 dpi, 3600 dpi, or 4800 dip. The resolution of the 3Dobject may be any value between the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from100 dpi to 4800 dpi, from 300 dpi to 2400 dpi, or from 600 dpi to 4800dpi). The height uniformity (e.g., deviation from average surfaceheight) of a planar surface of the 3D object may be at least about 100μm, 90 μm, 80 μm, 70 μm, 60 μm, 50 μm, 40 μm, 30 μm, 20 μm, 10 μm, or 5μm. The height uniformity of the planar surface may be at most about 100μm, 90 μm, 80, 70 μm, 60 μm, 50 μm, 40 μm, 30 μm, 20 μm, 10 μm, or 5 μm.The height uniformity of the planar surface of the 3D object may be anyvalue between the afore-mentioned height deviation values (e.g., fromabout 100 μm to about 5 μm, from about 50 μm to about 5 μm, from about30 μm to about 5 μm, or from about 20 μm to about 5 μm). The heightuniformity may comprise high precision uniformity.

In some embodiments, the energy (e.g., heat) is transferred from thematerial bed to the cooling member (e.g., heat sink) through any one orcombination of heat transfer mechanisms. FIG. 1, 113 shows an example ofa cooling member. The heat transfer mechanism may comprise conduction,radiation, or convection. The convection may comprise natural or forcedconvection. The cooling member can be solid, liquid, gas, or semi-solid.In some examples, the cooling member (e.g., heat sink) is solid. Thecooling member may be located above, below, or to the side of the powderlayer. The cooling member may comprise an energy conductive material.The cooling member may comprise an active energy transfer or a passiveenergy transfer. The cooling member may comprise a cooling liquid (e.g.,aqueous or oil), cooling gas, or cooling solid. The cooling member maybe further connected to a cooler and/or a thermostat. The gas,semi-solid, or liquid comprised in the cooling member may be stationaryor circulating. The cooling member may comprise a material that conductsheat efficiently. The heat (thermal) conductivity of the cooling membermay be at least about 20 Watts per meters times Kelvin (W/mK), 50 W/mK,100 W/mK, 150 W/mK, 200 W/mK, 205 W/mK, 300 W/mK, 350 W/mK, 400 W/mK,450 W/mK, 500 W/mK, 550 W/mK, 600 W/mK, 700 W/mK, 800 W/mK, 900 W/mK, or1000 W/mK. The heat conductivity of the heat sink may be at most about20 W/mK, 50 W/mK, 100 W/mK, 150 W/mK, 200 W/mK, 205 W/mK, 300 W/mK, 350W/mK, 400 W/mK, 450 W/mK, 500 W/mK, 550 W/mK, 600 W/mK, 700 W/mK, 800W/mK, 900 W/mK, or 1000 W/mK. The heat conductivity of the heat sink mayany value between the afore-mentioned heat conductivity values. The heat(thermal) conductivity of the cooling member may be measured at ambienttemperature (e.g., room temperature) and/or pressure. For example, theheat conductivity may be measured at about 20° C. and a pressure of 1atmosphere. The heat sink can be separated from the powder bed or powderlayer by a gap. The gap can be filled with a gas. The cooling member maybe any cooling member (e.g., that is used in 3D printing) such as, forexample, the ones described in Patent Application serial numberPCT/US15/36802, or in Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/252,330filed on Nov. 6, 2015, titled “APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FORTHREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING” both of which are entirely incorporatedherein by references.

In some embodiments, when the energy source is in operation, thematerial bed reaches a certain (e.g., average) temperature. The averagetemperature of the material bed can be an ambient temperature or “roomtemperature.” The average temperature of the material bed can have anaverage temperature during the operation of the energy (e.g., beam). Theaverage temperature of the material bed can be an average temperatureduring the formation of the transformed material, the formation of thehardened material, or the generation of the 3D object. The averagetemperature can be below or just below the transforming temperature ofthe material. Just below can refer to a temperature that is at mostabout 1° C., 2° C., 3° C., 4° C., 5° C., 6° C., 7° C., 8° C., 9° C., 10°C., 15° C., or 20° C. below the transforming temperature. The averagetemperature of the material bed (e.g., pre-transformed material) can beat most about 10° C. (degrees Celsius), 20° C., 25° C., 30° C., 40° C.,50° C., 60° C., 70° C., 80° C., 90° C., 100° C., 120° C., 140° C., 150°C., 160° C., 180° C., 200° C., 250° C., 300° C., 400° C., 500° C., 600°C., 700° C., 800° C., 900° C., 1000° C., 1200° C., 1400° C., 1600° C.,1800° C., or 2000° C. The average temperature of the material bed (e.g.,pre-transformed material) can be at least about 10° C., 20° C., 25° C.,30° C., 40° C., 50° C., 60° C., 70° C., 80° C., 90° C., 100° C., 120°C., 140° C., 150° C., 160° C., 180° C., 200° C., 250° C., 300° C., 400°C., 500° C., 600° C., 700° C., 800° C., 900° C., 1000° C., 1200° C.,1400° C., 1600° C., 1800° C., or 2000 ° C. The average temperature ofthe material bed (e.g., pre-transformed material) can be any temperaturebetween the afore-mentioned material average temperatures. The averagetemperature of the material bed (e.g., pre-transformed material) mayrefer to the average temperature during the 3D printing. Thepre-transformed material can be the material within the material bedthat has not been transformed and generated at least a portion of the 3Dobject (e.g., the remainder). The material bed can be heated or cooledbefore, during, or after forming the 3D object (e.g., hardenedmaterial). Bulk heaters can heat the material bed. The bulk heaters canbe situated adjacent to (e.g., above, below, or to the side of) thematerial bed, or within a material dispensing system. For example, thematerial can be heated using radiators (e.g., quartz radiators, orinfrared emitters). The material bed temperature can be substantiallymaintained at a predetermined value. The temperature of the material bedcan be monitored. The material temperature can be controlled manuallyand/or by a control system.

In some examples, the pre-transformed material within the material bedis heated by a first energy source such that the heating will transformthe pre-transformed material. The remainder of the material that did nottransform to generate at least a portion of the 3D object (e.g., theremainder) can be heated by a second energy source. The remainder can beat an average temperature that is less than the liquefying temperatureof the material (e.g., during the 3D printing). The maximum temperatureof the transformed portion of the material bed and the averagetemperature of the remainder of the material bed can be different. Thesolidus temperature of the material can be a temperature wherein thematerial is in a solid state at a given pressure (e.g., ambientpressure). Ambient may refer to the surrounding. After the portion ofthe material bed is heated to the temperature that is at least aliquefying temperature of the material by the first energy source, thatportion of the material may be cooled to allow the transformed (e.g.,liquefied) material portion to harden (e.g., solidify). In some cases,the liquefying temperature can be at least about 100° C., 200° C., 300°C., 400° C., or 500° C., and the solidus temperature can be at mostabout 500° C., 400° C., 300° C., 200° C., or 100° C. For example, theliquefying temperature is at least about 300° C. and the solidustemperature is less than about 300° C. In another example, theliquefying temperature is at least about 400° C. and the solidustemperature is less than about 400° C. The liquefying temperature may bedifferent from the solidus temperature. In some instances, thetemperature of the pre-transformed material is maintained above thesolidus temperature of the material and below its liquefyingtemperature. In some examples, the material from which thepre-transformed material is composed has a super cooling temperature (orsuper cooling temperature regime). In some examples, as the first energysource heats up the pre-transformed material to cause at least a portionof it to melt, the molten material will remain molten as the materialbed is held at or above the material super cooling temperature of thematerial, but below its melting point. When two or more materials makeup the material layer at a specific ratio, the materials may form aeutectic material on transformation of the material. The liquefyingtemperature of the formed eutectic material may be the temperature atthe eutectic point, close to the eutectic point, or far from theeutectic point. Close to the eutectic point may designate a temperaturethat is different from the eutectic temperature (i.e., temperature atthe eutectic point) by at most about 0.1° C., 0.5° C., 1° C., 2° C., 4°C., 5° C., 6° C., 8° C., 10° C., or 15° C. A temperature that is fartherfrom the eutectic point than the temperature close to the eutectic pointis designated herein as a temperature far from the eutectic Point. Theprocess of liquefying and solidifying a portion of the material can berepeated until the entire object has been formed. At the completion ofthe generated 3D object, it can be removed from the remainder ofmaterial in the container. The remaining material can be separated fromthe portion at the generated 3D object. The generated 3D object can behardened and removed from the container (e.g., from the substrate orfrom the base).

In some examples, the methods described herein further comprisestabilizing the temperature within the enclosure. For example,stabilizing the temperature of the atmosphere or the pre-transformedmaterial (e.g., within the material bed). Stabilization of thetemperature may be to a predetermined temperature value. The methodsdescribed herein may further comprise altering the temperature within atleast one portion of the container. Alteration of the temperature may beto a predetermined temperature. Alteration of the temperature maycomprise heating and/or cooling the material bed. Elevating thetemperature (e.g., of the material bed) may be to a temperature belowthe temperature at which the pre-transformed material fuses (e.g., meltsor sinters), connects, or bonds.

In some embodiments, the apparatus and/or systems described hereincomprise an optical system. The optical components may be controlledmanually and/or via a control system (e.g., a controller). The opticalsystem may be configured to direct at least one energy beam from the atleast one energy source to a position on the material bed within theenclosure (e.g., a predetermined position). A scanner can be included inthe optical system. The printing system may comprise a processor (e.g.,a central processing unit). The processor can be programmed to control atrajectory of the at least one energy beam and/or energy source with theaid of the optical system. The systems and/or the apparatus describedherein can further comprise a control system in communication with theat least one energy source and/or energy beam. The control system canregulate a supply of energy from the at least one energy source to thematerial in the container. The control system may control the variouscomponents of the optical system (e.g., FIG. 1, 120). The variouscomponents of the optical system (e.g., FIG. 5) may include opticalcomponents comprising a mirror (e.g., FIG. 5, 505), a lens (e.g.,concave or convex), a fiber, a beam guide, a rotating polygon, or aprism. The lens may be a focusing or a dispersing lens. The lens may bea diverging or converging lens. The mirror can be a deflection mirror.The optical components may be tiltable and/or rotatable. The opticalcomponents may be tilted and/or rotated. The mirror may be a deflectionmirror. The optical components may comprise an aperture. The aperturemay be mechanical. The optical system may comprise a variable focusingdevice. The variable focusing device may be connected to the controlsystem. The variable focusing device may be controlled by the controlsystem and/or manually. The variable focusing device may comprise amodulator. The modulator may comprise an acousto-optical modulator,mechanical modulator, or an electro optical modulator. The focusingdevice may comprise an aperture (e.g., a diaphragm aperture). Theoptical system may comprise an optical window (e.g., FIG. 5, 504). FIG.5 shows an example of an optical system and an energy source 506 thatproduces an energy beam 507 that travels through the components of theoptical system 505 and 504 to a target surface 502.

In some embodiments, the container described herein comprises at leastone sensor. The sensor may be connected and/or controlled by the controlsystem (e.g., computer control system, or controller). The controlsystem may be able to receive signals from the at least one sensor. Thecontrol system may act upon at least one signal received from the atleast one sensor. The control may utilize (e.g., rely on) feedbackand/or feed forward mechanisms that has been pre-programmed. Thefeedback and/or feed forward mechanisms may rely on input from at leastone sensor that is connected to the control unit.

In some embodiments, the sensor detects the amount of material (e.g.,pre-transformed material) in the enclosure. The controller may monitorthe amount of material in the enclosure (e.g., within the material bed).The systems and/or the apparatus described herein can include a pressuresensor. The pressure sensor may measure the pressure of the chamber(e.g., pressure of the chamber atmosphere). The pressure sensor can becoupled to a control system. The pressure can be electronically and/ormanually controlled. The controller may control (e.g., regulate,maintain, or alter) the pressure (e.g., with the aid of one or morepumps such as vacuum pumps or pressure pumps) according to input from atleast one pressure sensor. The sensor may comprise light sensor, imagesensor, acoustic sensor, vibration sensor, chemical sensor, electricalsensor, magnetic sensor, fluidity sensor, movement sensor, speed sensor,position sensor, pressure sensor, force sensor, density sensor,metrology sensor, sonic sensor (e.g., ultrasonic sensor), or proximitysensor. The metrology sensor may comprise measurement sensor (e.g.,height, length, width, angle, and/or volume). The metrology sensor maycomprise a magnetic, acceleration, orientation, or optical sensor. Theoptical sensor may comprise a camera (e.g., IR camera, or CCD camera(e.g., single line CCD camera)), or CCD camera (e.g., single line CCDcamera). The sensor may transmit and/or receive sound (e.g., echo),magnetic, electronic, or electromagnetic signal. The electromagneticsignal may comprise a visible, infrared, ultraviolet, ultrasound, radiowave, or microwave signal. The metrology sensor may measure the tile.The metrology sensor may measure the gap. The metrology sensor maymeasure at least a portion of the layer of material (e.g.,pre-transformed, transformed, and/or hardened). The layer of materialmay be a pre-transformed material (e.g., powder), transformed material,or hardened material. The metrology sensor may measure at least aportion of the 3D object. The sensor may comprise a temperature sensor,weight sensor, powder level sensor, gas sensor, or humidity sensor. Thegas sensor may sense any gas enumerated herein. The temperature sensormay comprise Bolometer, Bimetallic strip, calorimeter, Exhaust gastemperature gauge, Flame detection, Gardon gauge, Golay cell, Heat fluxsensor, Infrared thermometer, Microbolometer, Microwave radiometer, Netradiometer, Quartz thermometer, Resistance temperature detector,Resistance thermometer, Silicon band gap temperature sensor, Specialsensor microwave/imager, Temperature gauge, Thermistor, Thermocouple,Thermometer, Pyrometer, IR camera, or CCD camera (e.g., single line CCDcamera). The temperature sensor may measure the temperature withoutcontacting the material bed (e.g., non-contact measurements). Thepyrometer may comprise a point pyrometer, or a multi-point pyrometer.The Infrared (IR) thermometer may comprise an IR camera. The pressuresensor may comprise Barograph, Barometer, Boost gauge, Bourdon gauge,hot filament ionization gauge, Ionization gauge, McLeod gauge,Oscillating U-tube, Permanent Downhole Gauge, Piezometer, Pirani gauge,Pressure sensor, Pressure gauge, tactile sensor, or Time pressure gauge.The position sensor may comprise Auxanometer, Capacitive displacementsensor, Capacitive sensing, Free fall sensor, Gravimeter, Gyroscopicsensor, Impact sensor, Inclinometer, Integrated circuit piezoelectricsensor, Laser rangefinder, Laser surface velocimeter, LIDAR, Linearencoder, Linear variable differential transformer (LVDT), Liquidcapacitive inclinometers, Odometer, Photoelectric sensor, Piezoelectricaccelerometer, Rate sensor, Rotary encoder, Rotary variable differentialtransformer, Selsyn, Shock detector, Shock data logger, Tilt sensor,Tachometer, Ultrasonic thickness gauge, Variable reluctance sensor, orVelocity receiver. The optical sensor may comprise a Charge-coupleddevice, Colorimeter, Contact image sensor, Electro-optical sensor,Infra-red sensor, Kinetic inductance detector, light emitting diode aslight sensor, Light-addressable potentiometric sensor, Nicholsradiometer, Fiber optic sensors, optical position sensor, photodetector, photodiode, photomultiplier tubes, phototransistor,photoelectric sensor, photoionization detector, photomultiplier, photoresistor, photo switch, phototube, scintillometer, Shack-Hartmann,single-photon avalanche diode, superconducting nanowire single-photondetector, transition edge sensor, visible light photon counter, or wavefront sensor. The weight of the enclosure (e.g., container), or anycomponents within the enclosure can be monitored by at least one weightsensor in or adjacent to the material. For example, a weight sensor canbe situated at the bottom of the enclosure. The weight sensor can besituated between the bottom of the enclosure and the substrate. Theweight sensor can be situated between the substrate and the base. Theweight sensor can be situated between the bottom of the container andthe base. The weight sensor can be situated between the bottom of thecontainer and the top of the material bed. The weight sensor cancomprise a pressure sensor. The weight sensor may comprise a springscale, a hydraulic scale, a pneumatic scale, or a balance. At least aportion of the pressure sensor can be exposed on a bottom of thecontainer. In some cases, the at least one weight sensor can comprise abutton load cell. Alternatively, or additionally a sensor can beconfigured to monitor the weight of the material by monitoring a weightof a structure that contains the material (e.g., a material bed). One ormore position sensors (e.g., height sensors) can measure the height ofthe material bed relative to the substrate. The position sensors can beoptical sensors. The position sensors can determine a distance betweenone or more energy sources and a surface of the material bed. Thesurface of the material bed can be the upper surface of the materialbed. For example, FIG. 1, 119 shows an example of an upper surface ofthe material bed 104.

In some embodiments, the methods, systems, and/or the apparatusdescribed herein comprise at least one valve. The valve may be shut oropened according to an input from the at least one sensor, or manually.The degree of valve opening or shutting may be regulated by the controlsystem, for example, according to at least one input from at least onesensor. The systems and/or the apparatus described herein can includeone or more valves, such as throttle valves.

In some embodiments, the methods, systems, and/or the apparatusdescribed herein comprise an actuator. In some embodiments, the methods,systems, and/or the apparatus described herein comprise a motor. Themotor may be controlled by the control system and/or manually. Theapparatuses and/or systems described herein may include a systemproviding the material (e.g., powder material) to the material bed. Thesystem for providing the material may be controlled by the controlsystem, or manually. The motor may connect to a system providing thematerial (e.g., powder material) to the material bed. The system and/orapparatus of the present disclosure may comprise a material reservoir.The material may travel from the reservoir to the system and/orapparatus of the present disclosure may comprise a material reservoir.The material may travel from the reservoir to the system for providingthe material to the material bed. The motor may alter (e.g., theposition of) the substrate and/or to the base. The motor may alter(e.g., the position of) the elevator. The motor may alter an opening ofthe enclosure (e.g., its opening or closure). The motor may be a stepmotor or a servomotor. The motor may comprise a stepper motor. Themethods, systems and/or the apparatus described herein may comprise apiston. The piston may be a trunk, crosshead, slipper, or deflectorpiston.

In some embodiments, the systems and/or the apparatus described hereincomprise at least one nozzle. The nozzle may be regulated according toat least one input from at least one sensor. The nozzle may becontrolled automatically or manually. The controller may control thenozzle. The nozzle may include jet (e.g., gas jet) nozzle, high velocitynozzle, propelling nozzle, magnetic nozzle, spray nozzle, vacuum nozzle,or shaping nozzle (e.g., a die). The nozzle can be a convergent or adivergent nozzle. The spray nozzle may comprise an atomizer nozzle, anair-aspirating nozzle, or a swirl nozzle.

In some embodiments, the systems and/or the apparatus described hereincomprise at least one pump. The pump may be regulated according to atleast one input from at least one sensor. The pump may be controlledautomatically or manually. The controller may control the pump. The oneor more pumps may comprise a positive displacement pump. The positivedisplacement pump may comprise rotary-type positive displacement pump,reciprocating-type positive displacement pump, or linear-type positivedisplacement pump. The positive displacement pump may comprise rotarylobe pump, progressive cavity pump, rotary gear pump, piston pump,diaphragm pump, screw pump, gear pump, hydraulic pump, rotary vane pump,regenerative (peripheral) pump, peristaltic pump, rope pump or flexibleimpeller. Rotary positive displacement pump may comprise gear pump,screw pump, or rotary vane pump. The reciprocating pump comprisesplunger pump, diaphragm pump, piston pumps displacement pumps, or radialpiston pump. The pump may comprise a valve-less pump, steam pump,gravity pump, eductor-jet pump, mixed-flow pump, bellow pump, axial-flowpumps, radial-flow pump, velocity pump, hydraulic ram pump, impulsepump, rope pump, compressed-air-powered double-diaphragm pump,triplex-style plunger pump, plunger pump, peristaltic pump, roots-typepumps, progressing cavity pump, screw pump, or gear pump. In someexamples, the systems and/or the apparatus described herein include oneor more vacuum pumps selected from mechanical pumps, rotary vain pumps,turbomolecular pumps, ion pumps, cryopumps, and diffusion pumps. The oneor more vacuum pumps may comprise Rotary vane pump, diaphragm pump,liquid ring pump, piston pump, scroll pump, screw pump, Wankel pump,external vane pump, roots blower, multistage Roots pump, Toepler pump,or Lobe pump. The one or more vacuum pumps may comprise momentumtransfer pump, regenerative pump, entrapment pump, Venturi vacuum pump,or team ejector.

In some embodiments, the systems, apparatuses, and/or parts thereofcomprise a communication technology. The systems, apparatuses, and/orparts thereof may comprise Bluetooth technology. The systems,apparatuses, and/or parts thereof may comprise a communication port. Thecommunication port may be a serial port or a parallel port. Thecommunication port may be a Universal Serial Bus port (i.e., USB). Thesystems, apparatuses, and/or parts thereof may comprise USB ports. TheUSB can be micro or mini USB. The USB port may relate to device classescomprising 00 h, 01 h, 02 h, 03 h, 05 h, 06 h, 07 h, 08 h, 09 h, 0 Ah, 0Bh, 0 Dh, 0 Eh, 0 Fh, 10 h, 11 h, DCh, E0 h, EFh, FEh, or FFh. Thesurface identification mechanism may comprise a plug and/or a socket(e.g., electrical, AC power, DC power). The systems, apparatuses, and/orparts thereof may comprise an adapter (e.g., AC and/or DC poweradapter). The systems, apparatuses, and/or parts thereof may comprise apower connector. The power connector can be an electrical powerconnector. The power connector may comprise a magnetically attachedpower connector. The power connector can be a dock connector. Theconnector can be a data and power connector. The connector may comprisepins. The connector may comprise at least 10, 15, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26,28, 30, 40, 42, 45, 50, 55, 80, or 100 pins.

In some embodiments, the controller monitors and/or directs (e.g.,physical) alteration of the operating conditions of the apparatuses,software, and/or methods described herein. The controller may be amanual or a non-manual controller. The controller may be an automaticcontroller. The controller may operate upon request. The controller maybe a programmable controller. The controller may be programed. Thecontroller may comprise a processing unit (e.g., CPU or GPU). Thecontroller may receive an input (e.g., from a sensor). The controllermay deliver an output. The controller may comprise multiple controllers.The controller may receive multiple inputs. The controller may generatemultiple outputs. The controller may be a single input single outputcontroller (SISO) or a multiple input multiple output controller (MIMO).The controller may interpret the input signal received. The controllermay acquire data from the one or more sensors. Acquire may comprisereceive or extract. The data may comprise measurement, estimation,determination, generation, or any combination thereof. The controllermay comprise a control scheme including feedback control. The controllermay comprise feed-forward control. The control may comprise on-offcontrol, proportional control, proportional-integral (PI) control, orproportional-integral-derivative (PID) control. The control may compriseopen loop control, or closed loop control. The controller may compriseclosed loop control. The controller may comprise open loop control. Thecontroller may comprise a user interface. The user interface maycomprise a keyboard, keypad, mouse, touch screen, microphone, speechrecognition package, camera, imaging system, or any combination thereof.The outputs may include a display (e.g., screen), speaker, or printer.The controller may be any controller (e.g., a controller used in 3Dprinting) such as, for example, the controller disclosed in ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 62/252,330 that was filed on Nov. 6, 2015,titled “APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THREE-DIMENSIONALPRINTING,” or in Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/325,402 thatwas filed on Apr. 20, 2016, titled “METHODS, SYSTEMS, APPARATUSES, ANDSOFTWARE FOR ACCURATE THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING,” both of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

In some embodiments, the methods, systems, and/or the apparatusdescribed herein further comprise a control system. The control systemcan be in communication with one or more energy sources and/or energy(e.g., energy beams). The energy sources may be of the same type or ofdifferent types. For example, the energy sources can be both lasers, ora laser and an electron beam. For example, the control system may be incommunication with the first energy and/or with the second energy. Thecontrol system may regulate the one or more energies (e.g., energybeams). The control system may regulate the energy supplied by the oneor more energy sources. For example, the control system may regulate theenergy supplied by a first energy beam and by a second energy beam, tothe pre-transformed material within the material bed. The control systemmay regulate the position of the one or more energy beams. For example,the control system may regulate the position of the first energy beamand/or the position of the second energy beam.

In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises a processor. Theprocessor may be a processing unit. The controller may comprise aprocessing unit. The processing unit may be central. The processing unitmay comprise a central processing unit (herein “CPU”). The controllersor control mechanisms (e.g., comprising a computer system) may beprogrammed to implement methods of the disclosure. The processor (e.g.,3D printer processor) may be programmed to implement methods of thedisclosure. The controller may control at least one component of thesystems and/or apparatuses disclosed herein. FIG. 6 is a schematicexample of a computer system 600 that is programmed or otherwiseconfigured to facilitate the formation of a 3D object according to themethods provided herein. The computer system 600 can control (e.g.,direct, monitor, and/or regulate) various features of printing methods,apparatuses and systems of the present disclosure, such as, for example,control force, translation, heating, cooling and/or maintaining thetemperature of a powder bed, process parameters (e.g., chamberpressure), scanning rate (e.g., of the energy beam and/or the platform),scanning route of the energy source, position and/or temperature of thecooling member(s), application of the amount of energy emitted to aselected location, or any combination thereof. The computer system 600can be part of, or be in communication with, a 3D printing system orapparatus. The computer may be coupled to one or more mechanismsdisclosed herein, and/or any parts thereof. For example, the computermay be coupled to one or more sensors, valves, switches, motors, pumps,scanners, optical components, or any combination thereof

In some embodiments, the computer system 600 includes a processing unit606 (also “processor,” “computer” and “computer processor” used herein).The computer system may include memory or memory location 602 (e.g.,random-access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronicstorage unit 604 (e.g., hard disk), communication interface 603 (e.g.,network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, andperipheral devices 605, such as cache, other memory, data storage and/orelectronic display adapters. The memory 602, storage unit 604, interface603, and peripheral devices 605 are in communication with the processingunit 606 through a communication bus (solid lines), such as amotherboard. The storage unit can be a data storage unit (or datarepository) for storing data. The computer system can be operativelycoupled to a computer network (“network”) 601 with the aid of thecommunication interface. The network can be the Internet, an internetand/or extranet, or an intranet and/or extranet that is in communicationwith the Internet. In some cases, the network is a telecommunicationand/or data network. The network can include one or more computerservers, which can enable distributed computing, such as cloudcomputing. The network, in some cases with the aid of the computersystem, can implement a peer-to-peer network, which may enable devicescoupled to the computer system to behave as a client or a server.

In some embodiments, the processing unit executes a sequence ofmachine-readable instructions, which can be embodied in a program orsoftware. The instructions may be stored in a memory location, such asthe memory 602. The instructions can be directed to the processing unit,which can subsequently program or otherwise configure the processingunit to implement methods of the present disclosure. Examples ofoperations performed by the processing unit can include fetch, decode,execute, and write back. The processing unit may interpret and/orexecute instructions. The processor may include a microprocessor, a dataprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphical processing unit(GPU), a system-on-chip (SOC), a co-processor, a network processor, anapplication specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application specificinstruction-set processor (ASIPs), a controller, a programmable logicdevice (PLD), a chipset, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or anycombination thereof. The processing unit can be part of a circuit, suchas an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the computersystem 600 can be included in the circuit.

In some embodiments, the storage unit 604 stores files, such as drivers,libraries and saved programs. The storage unit can store user data(e.g., user preferences and user programs). In some cases, the computersystem can include one or more additional data storage units that areexternal to the computer system, such as located on a remote server thatis in communication with the computer system through an intranet or theInternet.

In some embodiments, the computer system communicates with one or moreremote computer systems through a network. For instance, the computersystem can communicate with a remote computer system of a user (e.g.,operator). Examples of remote computer systems include personalcomputers (e.g., portable PC), slate or tablet PC's (e.g., Apple® iPad,Samsung® Galaxy Tab), telephones, Smart phones (e.g., Apple® iPhone,Android-enabled device, Blackberry®), or personal digital assistants. Auser (e.g., client) can access the computer system via the network.

In some examples, the methods as described herein are implemented by wayof machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored on anelectronic storage location of the computer system, such as, forexample, on the memory 602 or electronic storage unit 604. The machineexecutable or machine-readable code can be provided in the form ofsoftware. During use, the processing unit 606 can execute the code. Insome cases, the code can be retrieved from the storage unit and storedon the memory for ready access by the processor. In some situations, theelectronic storage unit can be precluded, and machine-executableinstructions are stored on memory.

In some embodiments, the code is pre-compiled and configured for usewith a machine that has a processor adapted to execute the code, or canbe compiled during runtime. The code can be supplied in a programminglanguage that can be selected to enable the code to execute in apre-compiled or as-compiled fashion.

In some embodiments, the processing unit includes one or more cores. Thecomputer system may comprise a single core processor, multi coreprocessor, or a plurality of processors for parallel processing. Theprocessing unit may comprise one or more central processing unit (CPU)and/or a graphic processing unit (GPU). The multiple cores may bedisposed in a physical unit (e.g., Central Processing Unit, or GraphicProcessing Unit). The processing unit may include one or more processingunits. The physical unit may be a single physical unit. The physicalunit may be a die. The physical unit may comprise cache coherencycircuitry. The multiple cores may be disposed in close proximity. Thephysical unit may comprise an integrated circuit chip. The integratedcircuit chip may comprise one or more transistors. The integratedcircuit chip may comprise at least about 0.2 billion transistors (BT),0.5 BT, 1 BT, 2 BT, 3 BT, 5 BT, 6 BT, 7 BT, 8 BT, 9 BT, 10 BT, 15 BT, 20BT, 25 BT, 30 BT, 40 BT, or 50 BT. The integrated circuit chip maycomprise at most about 7 BT, 8 BT, 9 BT, 10 BT, 15 BT, 20 BT, 25 BT, 30BT, 40 BT, 50 BT, 70 BT, or 100 BT. The integrated circuit chip maycomprise any number of transistors between the afore-mentioned numbers(e.g., from about 0.2 BT to about 100 BT, from about 1 BT to about 8 BT,from about 8 BT to about 40 BT, or from about 40 BT to about 100 BT).The integrated circuit chip may have an area of at least about 50 mm²,60 mm², 70 mm², 80 mm², 90 mm², 100 mm², 200 mm², 300 mm², 400 mm², 500mm², 600 mm², 700 mm², or 800 mm². The integrated circuit chip may havean area of at most about 50 mm², 60 mm², 70 mm², 80 mm², 90 mm², 100mm², 200 mm², 300 mm², 400 mm², 500 mm², 600 mm², 700 mm², or 800 mm ².The integrated circuit chip may have an area of any value between theafore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 50 mm² to about 800 mm², fromabout 50 mm² to about 500 mm², or from about 500 mm² to about 800 mm²).The close proximity may allow substantial preservation of communicationsignals that travel between the cores. The close proximity may diminishcommunication signal degradation. A core as understood herein is acomputing component having independent central processing capabilities.The computing system may comprise a multiplicity of cores, which aredisposed on a single computing component. The multiplicity of cores mayinclude two or more independent central processing units. Theindependent central processing units may constitute a unit that read andexecute program instructions. The independent central processing unitsmay constitute parallel processing units. The parallel processing unitsmay be cores and/or digital signal processing slices (DSP slices). Themultiplicity of cores can be parallel cores. The multiplicity of DSPslices can be parallel DSP slices. The multiplicity of cores and/or DSPslices can function in parallel. The multiplicity of cores may includeat least about 2, 10, 40, 100, 400, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000,7000, 8000, 9000, 10000, 11000, 12000, 13000, 14000 or 15000 cores. Themultiplicity of cores may include at most about 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000,5000, 6000, 7000, 8000, 9000, 10000, 11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000,20000, 30000, or 40000 cores. The multiplicity of cores may includecores of any number between the afore-mentioned numbers (e.g., fromabout 2 to about 40000, from about 2 to about 400, from about 400 toabout 4000, from about 2000 to about 4000, from about 4000 to about10000, from about 4000 to about 15000, or from about 15000 to about40000 cores). In some processors (e.g., FPGA), the cores may beequivalent to multiple digital signal processor (DSP) slices (e.g.,slices). The plurality of DSP slices may be equal to any of pluralitycore values mentioned herein. The processor may comprise low latency indata transfer (e.g., from one core to another). Latency may refer to thetime delay between the cause and the effect of a physical change in theprocessor (e.g., a signal). Latency may refer to the time elapsed fromthe source (e.g., first core) sending a packet to the destination (e.g.,second core) receiving it (also referred as two-point latency).One-point latency may refer to the time elapsed from the source (e.g.,first core) sending a packet (e.g., signal) to the destination (e.g.,second core) receiving it, and the designation sending a packet back tothe source (e.g., the packet making a round trip). The latency may besufficiently low to allow a high number of floating point operations persecond (FLOPS). The number of FLOPS may be at least about 0.1 Tera FLOPS(T-FLOPS), 0.2 T-FLOPS, 0.25 T-FLOPS, 0.5 T-FLOPS, 0.75 T-FLOPS, 1T-FLOPS, 2 T-FLOPS, 3 T-FLOPS, 5 T-FLOPS, 6 T-FLOPS, 7 T-FLOPS, 8T-FLOPS, 9 T-FLOPS, or 10 T-FLOPS. The number of flops may be at mostabout 0.2 T-FLOPS, 0.25 T-FLOPS, 0.5 T-FLOPS, 0.75 T-FLOPS, 1 T-FLOPS, 2T-FLOPS, 3 T-FLOPS, 5 T-FLOPS, 6 T-FLOPS, 7 T-FLOPS, 8 T-FLOPS, 9T-FLOPS, 10 T-FLOPS, 20 T-FLOPS, 30 T-FLOPS, 50 T-FLOPS, 100 T- FLOPS, 1P-FLOPS, 2 P-FLOPS, 3 P-FLOPS, 4 P-FLOPS, 5 P-FLOPS, 10 P-FLOPS, 50P-FLOPS, 100 P-FLOPS, 1 EXA-FLOP, 2 EXA-FLOPS, or 10 EXA-FLOPS. Thenumber of FLOPS may be any value between the afore-mentioned values(e.g., from about 0.1 T-FLOP to about 10 EXA-FLOPS, from about 0.1T-FLOPS to about 1 T-FLOPS, from about 1 T-FLOPS to about 4 T-FLOPS,from about 4 T-FLOPS to about 10 T-FLOPS, from about 1 T-FLOPS to about10 T-FLOPS, or from about 10 T-FLOPS to about 30 T-FLOPS, from about 50T-FLOPS to about 1 EXA-FLOP, or from about 0.1 T-FLOP to about 10EXA-FLOPS). In some processors (e.g., FPGA), the operations per secondmay be measured as (e.g., Giga) multiply-accumulate operations persecond (e.g., MACs or GMACs). The MACs value can be equal to any of theT-FLOPS values mentioned herein measured as Tera-MACs (T-MACs) insteadof T-FLOPS respectively. The FLOPS can be measured according to abenchmark. The benchmark may be a HPC Challenge Benchmark. The benchmarkmay comprise mathematical operations (e.g., equation calculation such aslinear equations), graphical operations (e.g., rendering), orencryption/decryption benchmark. The benchmark may comprise a HighPerformance UNPACK, matrix multiplication (e.g., DGEMM), sustainedmemory bandwidth to/from memory (e.g., STREAM), array transposing ratemeasurement (e.g., PTRANS), Random-access, rate of Fast FourierTransform (e.g., on a large one-dimensional vector using the generalizedCooley-Tukey algorithm), or Communication Bandwidth and Latency (e.g.,MPI-centric performance measurements based on the effectivebandwidth/latency benchmark). UNPACK may refer to a software library forperforming numerical linear algebra on a digital computer. DGEMM mayrefer to double precision general matrix multiplication. STREAMbenchmark may refer to a synthetic benchmark designed to measuresustainable memory bandwidth (in MB/s) and a corresponding computationrate for four simple vector kernels (Copy, Scale, Add and Triad). PTRANSbenchmark may refer to a rate measurement at which the system cantranspose a large array (global). MPI refers to Message PassingInterface.

In some embodiments, the computer system includes hyper-threadingtechnology. The computer system may include a chip processor withintegrated transform, lighting, triangle setup, triangle clipping,rendering engine, or any combination thereof. The rendering engine maybe capable of processing at least about 10 million polygons per second.The rendering engines may be capable of processing at least about 10million calculations per second. As an example, the GPU may include aGPU by NVidia, ATI Technologies, S3 Graphics, Advanced Micro Devices(AMD), or Matrox. The processing unit may be able to process algorithmscomprising a matrix or a vector. The core may comprise a complexinstruction set computing core (CISC), or reduced instruction setcomputing (RISC).

In some embodiments, the computer system includes an electronic chipthat is reprogrammable (e.g., field programmable gate array (FPGA)). Forexample, the FPGA may comprise Tabula, Altera, or Xilinx FPGA. Theelectronic chips may comprise one or more programmable logic blocks(e.g., an array). The logic blocks may compute combinational functions,logic gates, or any combination thereof. The computer system may includecustom hardware. The custom hardware may comprise an algorithm.

In some embodiments, the computer system includes configurablecomputing, partially reconfigurable computing, reconfigurable computing,or any combination thereof. The computer system may include a FPGA. Thecomputer system may include an integrated circuit that performs thealgorithm. For example, the reconfigurable computing system may compriseFPGA, CPU, GPU, or multi-core microprocessors. The reconfigurablecomputing system may comprise a High-Performance ReconfigurableComputing architecture (HPRC). The partially reconfigurable computingmay include module-based partial reconfiguration, or difference-basedpartial reconfiguration. The FPGA may comprise configurable FPGA logic,and/or fixed-function hardware comprising multipliers, memories,microprocessor cores, first in-first out (FIFO) and/or error correctingcode (ECC) logic, digital signal processing (DSP) blocks, peripheralComponent interconnect express (PCI Express) controllers, Ethernet mediaaccess control (MAC) blocks, or high-speed serial transceivers. DSPblocks can be DSP slices.

In some embodiments, the computing system includes an integrated circuitthat performs the algorithm (e.g., control algorithm). The physical unit(e.g., the cache coherency circuitry within) may have a clock time of atleast about 0.1 Gigabits per second (Gbit/s), 0.5 Gbit/s, 1 Gbit/s, 2Gbit/s, 5 Gbit/s, 6 Gbit/s, 7 Gbit/s, 8 Gbit/s, 9 Gbit/s, 10 Gbit/s, or50 Gbit/s. The physical unit may have a clock time of any value betweenthe afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 0.1 Gbit/s to about 50Gbit/s, or from about 5 Gbit/s to about 10 Gbit/s). The physical unitmay produce the algorithm output in at most about 0.1 microsecond (μs),1 μs, 10 μs, 100 μs, or 1 millisecond (ms). The physical unit mayproduce the algorithm output in any time between the above mentionedtimes (e.g., from about 0.1 μs, to about 1 ms, from about 0.1 μs, toabout 100 μs, or from about 0.1 μs to about 10 μs).

In some instances, the controller uses calculations, real timemeasurements, or any combination thereof to regulate the energy beam(s).The sensor (e.g., temperature and/or positional sensor) may provide asignal (e.g., input for the controller and/or processor) at a rate of atleast about 0.1 KHz, 1 KHz, 10 KHz, 100 KHz, 1000 KHz, or 10000 KHz).The sensor may provide a signal at a rate between any of theabove-mentioned rates (e.g., from about 0.1 KHz to about 10000 KHz, fromabout 0.1 KHz to about 1000 KHz, or from about 1000 KHz to about 10000KHz). The memory bandwidth of the processing unit may be at least about1 gigabytes per second (Gbytes/s), 10 Gbytes/s, 100 Gbytes/s, 200Gbytes/s, 300 Gbytes/s, 400 Gbytes/s, 500 Gbytes/s, 600 Gbytes/s, 700Gbytes/s, 800 Gbytes/s, 900 Gbytes/s, or 1000 Gbytes/s. The memorybandwidth of the processing unit may be at most about 1 gigabyte persecond (Gbytes/s), 10 Gbytes/s, 100 Gbytes/s, 200 Gbytes/s, 300Gbytes/s, 400 Gbytes/s, 500 Gbytes/s, 600 Gbytes/s, 700 Gbytes/s, 800Gbytes/s, 900 Gbytes/s, or 1000 Gbytes/s. The memory bandwidth of theprocessing unit may have any value between the afore-mentioned values(e.g., from about 1 Gbytes/s to about 1000 Gbytes/s, from about 100Gbytes/s to about 500 Gbytes/s, from about 500 Gbytes/s to about 1000Gbytes/s, or from about 200 Gbytes/s to about 400 Gbytes/s). The sensormeasurements may be real-time measurements. The real-time measurementsmay be conducted during the 3D printing process. The real-timemeasurements may be in situ measurements in the 3D printing systemand/or apparatus the real-time measurements may be during the formationof the 3D object. In some instances, the processing unit may use thesignal obtained from the at least one sensor to provide a processingunit output, which output is provided by the processing system at aspeed of at most about 100 min, 50 min, 25 min, 15 min, 10 min, 5 min, 1min, 0.5 min (i.e., 30 sec), 15 sec, 10 sec, 5 sec, 1 sec, 0.5 sec, 0.25sec, 0.2 sec, 0.1 sec, 80 milliseconds (msec), 50 msec, 10 msec, 5 msec,1 msec, 80 microseconds (μsec), 50 μsec, 20 μsec, 10 μsec, 5 μsec, or 1μsec. In some instances, the processing unit may use the signal obtainedfrom the at least one sensor to provide a processing unit output, whichoutput is provided at a speed of any value between the afore-mentionedvalues (e.g., from about 100 min to about 1 μsec, from about 100 min toabout 10 min, from about 10 min to about 1 min, from about 5 min toabout 0.5 min, from about 30 sec to about 0.1 sec, from about 0.1 sec toabout 1 msec, from about 80 msec to about 10 μsec, from about 50 μsec toabout 1 μsec, from about 20 μsec to about 1 μsec, or from about 10 μsecto about 1 μsec).

In some embodiments, the processing unit computes an output. Theprocessing unit output may comprise an evaluation of the temperature ata location, position at a location (e.g., vertical, and/or horizontal),or a map of locations. The location may be on the target surface. Themap may comprise a topological or temperature map. The temperaturesensor may comprise a temperature imaging device (e.g., IR imagingdevice).

In some embodiments, the processing unit uses the signal obtained fromthe at least one sensor in an algorithm that is used in controlling theenergy beam. The algorithm may comprise the path of the energy beam. Insome instances, the algorithm may be used to alter the path of theenergy beam on the target surface. The path may deviate from a crosssection of a model corresponding to the desired 3D object. Theprocessing unit may use the output in an algorithm that is used indetermining the manner in which a model of the desired 3D object may besliced. The processing unit may use the signal obtained from the atleast one sensor in an algorithm that is used to configure one or moreparameters and/or apparatuses relating to the 3D printing process. Theparameters may comprise a characteristic of the energy beam. Theparameters may comprise movement of the platform and/or material bed.The parameters may comprise relative movement of the energy beam and thematerial bed. In some instances, the energy beam, the platform (e.g.,material bed disposed on the platform), or both may translate. Thecontroller may use historical data for the control. The processing unitmay use historical data in its one or more algorithms. The parametersmay comprise the height of the layer of powder material disposed in theenclosure and/or the gap by which the cooling element (e.g., heat sink)is separated from the target surface. The target surface may be theexposed layer of the material bed.

In some examples, aspects of the systems, apparatuses, and/or methodsprovided herein, such as the computer system, are embodied inprogramming (e.g., using a software). Various aspects of the technologymay be thought of as “product,” “object,” or “articles of manufacture”typically in the form of machine (or processor) executable code and/orassociated data that is carried on or embodied in a type ofmachine-readable medium. Machine-executable code can be stored on anelectronic storage unit, such memory (e.g., read-only memory,random-access memory, flash memory) or a hard disk. The storage maycomprise non-volatile storage media. “Storage” type media can includeany or all of the tangible memory of the computers, processors or thelike, or associated modules thereof, such as various semiconductormemories, tape drives, disk drives, external drives, and the like, whichmay provide non-transitory storage at any time for the softwareprogramming.

In some embodiments, the memory comprises a random-access memory (RAM),dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM),synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), ferroelectric randomaccess memory (FRAM), read only memory (ROM), programmable read onlymemory (PROM), erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM),electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), a flashmemory, or any combination thereof. The flash memory may comprise anegative-AND (NAND) or NOR logic gates. A NAND gate (negative-AND) maybe a logic gate which produces an output which is false only if all itsinputs are true. The output of the NAND gate may be complement to thatof the AND gate. The storage may include a hard disk (e.g., a magneticdisk, an optical disk, a magneto-optic disk, a solid-state disk, etc.),a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a floppy disk, acartridge, a magnetic tape, and/or another type of computer-readablemedium, along with a corresponding drive.

In some examples, the portions of the software include communication.All or portions of the software may at times be communicated through theInternet or various other telecommunication networks. Suchcommunications, for example, may enable loading of the software from onecomputer or processor into another, for example, from a managementserver or host computer into the computer platform of an applicationserver. Thus, another type of media that may bear the software elementsincludes optical, electrical, and electromagnetic waves, such as usedacross physical interfaces between local devices, through wired andoptical landline networks and over various air-links. The physicalelements that carry such waves, such as wired or wireless links, opticallinks, or the like, also may be considered as media bearing thesoftware. As used herein, unless restricted to non-transitory, tangible“storage” media, terms such as computer or machine “readable medium”refer to any medium that participates in providing instructions to aprocessor for execution. Hence, a machine-readable medium, such ascomputer-executable code, may take many forms, including but not limitedto, a tangible storage medium, a carrier wave medium, or physicaltransmission medium. Non-volatile storage media include, for example,optical or magnetic disks, such as any of the storage devices in anycomputer(s) or the like, such as may be used to implement the databases.Volatile storage media can include dynamic memory, such as main memoryof such a computer platform. Tangible transmission media can includecoaxial cables, wire (e.g., copper wire), and/or fiber optics, includingthe wires that comprise a bus within a computer system. Carrier-wavetransmission media may take the form of electric or electromagneticsignals, or acoustic or light waves such as those generated during radiofrequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms ofcomputer-readable media therefore include for example: a floppy disk, aflexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, aCD-ROM, DVD or DVD-ROM, any other optical medium, punch cards papertape, any other physical storage medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, aROM, a PROM and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip orcartridge, a carrier wave transporting data or instructions, cables orlinks transporting such a carrier wave, any other medium from which acomputer may read programming code and/or data, or any combinationthereof. The memory and/or storage may comprise a storing deviceexternal to and/or removable from device, such as a Universal Serial Bus(USB) memory stick, or/and a hard disk. Many of these forms of computerreadable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of oneor more instructions to a processor for execution.

In some embodiments, the computer system includes or is in communicationwith an electronic display that comprises a user interface (UI) forproviding, for example, a model design or graphical representation of a3D object to be printed. Examples of UI's include, without limitation, agraphical user interface (GUI) and web-based user interface. Thecomputer system can monitor and/or control various aspects of the 3Dprinting system. The control may be manual and/or programmed. Thecontrol may utilize (e.g., rely on) a feedback mechanisms (e.g., fromthe one or more sensors). The control may utilize (e.g., rely on)historical data. The feedback mechanism (e.g., feedback control scheme)may be pre-programmed. The feedback mechanisms may rely on input fromsensors (described herein) that are connected to the control unit (i.e.,control system or control mechanism e.g., computer) and/or processingunit. The computer system may store historical data concerning variousaspects of the operation of the 3D printing system. The historical datamay be retrieved at predetermined times and/or at a whim. The historicaldata may be accessed by an operator and/or by a user. The historical,sensor, and/or operative data may be provided in an output unit such asa display unit. The output unit (e.g., monitor) may output variousparameters of the 3D printing system (as described herein) in real timeor in a delayed time. The output unit may output the current 3D printedobject, the ordered 3D printed object, or both. The output unit mayoutput the printing progress of the 3D printed object. The output unitmay output at least one of the total time, time remaining, and timeexpanded on printing the 3D object. The output unit may output (e.g.,display, voice, and/or print) the status of sensors, their reading,and/or time for their calibration or maintenance. The output unit mayoutput the type of material(s) used and various characteristics of thematerial(s) such as temperature and flowability of the pre-transformedmaterial. The output unit may output the amount of oxygen, water, andpressure in the printing chamber (i.e., the chamber where the 3D objectis being printed). The computer may generate a report comprising variousparameters of the 3D printing system, method, and or objects atpredetermined time(s), on a request (e.g., from an operator), and/or ata whim. The output unit may comprise a screen, printer, or speaker. Thecontrol system may provide a report. The report may comprise any itemsrecited as optionally output by the output unit.

In some embodiments, the system and/or apparatus described herein (e.g.,controller) and/or any of their components comprises an output and/or aninput device. The input device may comprise a keyboard, touch pad, ormicrophone. The output device may be a sensory output device. The outputdevice may include a visual, tactile, or audio device. The audio devicemay include a loudspeaker. The visual output device may include a screenand/or a printed hard copy (e.g., paper). The output device may includea printer. The input device may include a camera, a microphone, akeyboard, or a touch screen.

In some embodiments, the computer system includes, or is incommunication with, an electronic display unit that comprises a userinterface (UI) for providing, for example, a model design or graphicalrepresentation of an object to be printed. Examples of UI's include agraphical user interface (GUI) and web-based user interface. Thehistorical and/or operative data may be displayed on a display unit. Thecomputer system may store historical data concerning various aspects ofthe operation of the cleaning system. The historical data may beretrieved at predetermined times and/or at a whim. The historical datamay be accessed by an operator and/or by a user. The display unit (e.g.,monitor) may display various parameters of the printing system (asdescribed herein) in real time or in a delayed time. The display unitmay display the desired printed 3D object (e.g., according to a model),the printed 3D object, real time display of the 3D object as it is beingprinted, or any combination thereof. The display unit may display thecleaning progress of the object, or various aspects thereof. The displayunit may display at least one of the total time, time remaining, andtime expanded on the cleaned object during the cleaning process. Thedisplay unit may display the status of sensors, their reading, and/ortime for their calibration or maintenance. The display unit may displaythe type or types of material used and various characteristics of thematerial or materials such as temperature and flowability of thepre-transformed material. The particulate material that did nottransform to form the 3D object (e.g., the remainder) disposed in thematerial bed may be flowable (e.g., during the 3D printing process). Thedisplay unit may display the amount of a certain gas in the chamber. Thegas may comprise oxygen, hydrogen, water vapor, or any of the gassesmentioned herein. The display unit may display the pressure in thechamber. The computer may generate a report comprising variousparameters of the methods, objects, apparatuses, or systems describedherein. The report may be generated at predetermined time(s), on arequest (e.g., from an operator) or at a whim.

In some examples, the methods, apparatuses, and/or systems of thepresent disclosure are implemented by way of one or more algorithms. Analgorithm can be implemented by way of software upon execution by one ormore computer processors. For example, the processor can be programmedto calculate the path of the energy beam and/or the power per unit areaemitted by the energy source (e.g., that should be provided to thematerial bed in order to achieve the desired result). Other controland/or algorithm examples may be found in provisional patent applicationnumber 62/325,402, which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

In some embodiments, the 3D printer comprises and/or communicates with amultiplicity of processors. The processors may form a networkarchitecture. Examples of processor architectures are shown in FIGS. 7and FIG. 8. FIG. 7 shows an example of a 3D printer 702 comprising aprocessor that is in communication with a local processor (e.g.,desktop) 701, a remote processor 704, and a machine interface 703. The3D printer interface is termed herein as “machine interface.” Thecommunication of the 3D printer processor with the remote processorand/or machine interface may or may not be through a server. The servermay be integrated within the 3D printer. The machine interface may beintegrated with, or closely situated adjacent to, the 3D printer 702.Arrows 711 and 713 designate local communications. Arrow 714 designatescommunicating through a firewall (shown as a discontinuous line). FIG. 8shows an example of a plurality of 3D printers 803 in communication witha server 802. The server may be external to the 3D printers. The 3Dprinter(s) may be in communication with one or more machine interfaces.The machine interface (e.g., FIG. 8, 807) may be adjacent to (e.g.,integrated in) the 3D printer (e.g., FIG. 8, 803). The machine interface(e.g., FIG. 8, 804) may be distant from the 3D printer (e.g., FIG. 8,803). A machine interface may communicate directly or indirectly withthe 3D printer processor. A 3D printing processor may comprise aplurality of machine interfaces. Any of the machine interfaces may beoptionally included in the 3D printing system. The communication betweenthe 3D printer processor and the machine interface processor may beunidirectional (e.g., from the machine interface processor to the 3Dprinter processor), or bidirectional. The arrows in FIG. 8 illustrationthe directionality of the communication (e.g., flow of informationdirection) between the processors. The 3D printer processor may beconnected directly or indirectly to one or more stationary processors(e.g., desktop). The 3D printer processor may be connected directly orindirectly to one or more mobile processors (e.g., mobile device). The3D printer processor may be connected directly or indirectly (e.g.,through a server) to processors that direct 3D printing instructions(e.g., FIG. 8, 801 and/or 806). The connection may be local (e.g., inFIG. 8, 801) or remote (e.g., in FIG. 8, 806). The 3D printer processormay communicate with at least one 3D printing monitoring processor(e.g., FIG. 8, 808). The 3D printing processor may be owned by theentity supplying the printing instruction to the 3D printer (e.g., FIG.8, 808), or by a client (e.g., FIG. 8, 805). The client may be an entityor person that desires at least one 3D printing object. The arrows inFIG. 8 designate the direction of communications (e.g., information)flow.

In some embodiments, the 3D printer comprises at least one processor(referred herein as the “3D printer processor”). The 3D printer maycomprise a plurality of processors. At least two of the plurality of the3D printer processors may interact with each other. At times, at leasttwo of the plurality of the 3D printer processors may not interact witheach other. Discontinuous line 809 of FIG. 8 illustrates a firewall.

In some embodiments, a 3D printer processor interacts with at least oneprocessor that acts as a 3D printer interface (also referred to hereinas “machine interface processor”). The processor (e.g., machineinterface processor) may be stationary or mobile. The processor may be aremote computer systems. The machine interface one or more processorsmay be connected to at least one 3D printer processor. The connectionmay be through a wire (e.g., cable) or be wireless (e.g., via Bluetoothtechnology). The machine interface may be hardwired to the 3D printer.The machine interface may directly connect to the 3D printer (e.g., tothe 3D printer processor). The machine interface may indirectly connectto the 3D printer (e.g., through a server, or through wirelesscommunication). The cable may comprise coaxial cable, shielded twistedcable pair, unshielded twisted cable pair, structured cable (e.g., usedin structured cabling), or fiber-optic cable.

In some embodiments, the machine interface processor directs 3D printjob production, 3D printer management, 3D printer monitoring, or anycombination thereof. The machine interface processor may not be able toinfluence (e.g., direct, or be involved in) pre-print or 3D printingprocess development. The machine management may comprise controlling the3D printer controller (e.g., directly, or indirectly). The printercontroller may direct starting of a 3D printing process, stopping a 3Dprinting process, maintenance of the 3D printer, clearing alarms (e.g.,concerning safety features of the 3D printer).

In some embodiments, the machine interface processor allows monitoringof the 3D printing process (e.g., accessible remotely or locally). Themachine interface processor may allow viewing a log of the 3D printingand status of the 3D printer at a certain time (e.g., 3D printersnapshot). The machine interface processor may allow to monitor one ormore 3D printing parameters. The one or more printing parametersmonitored by the machine interface processor can comprise 3D printerstatus (e.g., 3D printer is idle, preparing to 3D print, 3D printing,maintenance, fault, or offline), active 3D printing (e.g., including abuild module number), status and/or position of build module(s), statusof build module and processing chamber engagement, type and status ofpre-transformed material used in the 3D printing (e.g., amount ofpre-transformed material remaining in the reservoir), status of afilter, atmosphere status (e.g., pressure, gas level(s)), ventilatorstatus, layer dispensing mechanism status (e.g., position, speed, rateof deposition, level of exposed layer of the material bed), status ofthe optical system (e.g., optical window, mirror), status of scanner,alarm (, boot log, status change, safety events, motion control commands(e.g., of the energy beam, or of the layer dispensing mechanism), orprinted 3D object status (e.g., what layer number is being printed),

In some embodiments, the machine interface processor allows monitoringthe 3D print job management. The 3D print job management may comprisestatus of each build module (e.g., atmosphere condition, position in theenclosure, position in a queue to go in the enclosure, position in aqueue to engage with the processing chamber, position in queue forfurther processing, power levels of the energy beam, type ofpre-transformed material loaded, 3D printing operation diagnostics,status of a filter. The machine interface processor (e.g., output devicethereof) may allow viewing and/or editing any of the job managementand/or one or more printing parameters. The machine interface processormay show the permission level given to the user (e.g., view, or edit).The machine interface processor may allow viewing and/or assigning acertain 3D object to a particular build module, prioritize 3D objects tobe printed, pause 3D objects during 3D printing, delete 3D objects to beprinted, select a certain 3D printer for a particular 3D printing job,insert and/or edit considerations for restarting a 3D printing job thatwas removed from 3D printer. The machine interface processor may allowinitiating, pausing, and/or stopping a 3D printing job. The machineinterface processor may output message notification (e.g., alarm), log(e.g., other than Excursion log or other default log), or anycombination thereof.

In some embodiments, the 3D printer interacts with at least one server(e.g., print server). The 3D print server may be separate orinterrelated in the 3D printer.

In some embodiments, one or more users interact with the one or more 3Dprinting processors through one or more user processors (e.g.,respectively). The interaction may be in parallel and/or sequentially.The users may be clients. The users may belong to entities that desire a3D object to be printed, or entities who prepare the 3D object printinginstructions. The one or more users may interact with the 3D printer(e.g., through the one or more processors of the 3D printer) directlyand/or indirectly. Indirect interaction may be through the server. Oneor more users may be able to monitor one or more aspects of the 3Dprinting process. One or more users can monitor aspects of the 3Dprinting process through at least one connection (e.g., networkconnection). For example, one or more users can monitor aspects of theprinting process through direct or indirect connection. Directconnection may be using a local area network (LAN), and/or a wide areanetwork (WAN). The network may interconnect computers within a limitedarea (e.g., a building, campus, neighborhood). The limited area networkmay comprise Ethernet or Wi-Fi. The network may have its networkequipment and interconnects locally managed. The network may cover alarger geographic distance than the limited area. The network may usetelecommunication circuits and/or internet links. The network maycomprise Internet Area Network (IAN), and/or the public switchedtelephone network (PSTN). The communication may comprise webcommunication. The aspect of the 3D printing process may comprise a 3Dprinting parameter, machine status, or sensor status. The 3D printingparameter may comprise hatch strategy, energy beam power, energy beamspeed, energy beam focus, thickness of a layer (e.g., of hardenedmaterial or of pre-transformed material).

In some embodiments, a user develops at least one 3D printinginstruction and directs it to the 3D printer (e.g., throughcommunication with the 3D printer processor) to print in a desiredmanner according to the developed at least one 3D printing instruction.A user may or may not be able to control (e.g., locally, or remotely)the 3D printer controller. For example, a client may not be able tocontrol the 3D printing controller (e.g., maintenance of the 3Dprinter).

In some embodiments, the user (e.g., other than a client) processor usesreal-time and/or historical 3D printing data. The 3D printing data maycomprise metrology data, or temperature data. The user processor maycomprise quality control. The quality control may use a statisticalmethod (e.g., statistical process control (SPC)). The user processor maylog excursion log, report when a signal deviates from the nominal level,or any combination thereof. The user processor may generate aconfigurable response. The configurable response may comprise aprint/pause/stop command (e.g., automatically) to the 3D printer (e.g.,to the 3D printing processor). The configurable response may be based ona user defined parameter, threshold, or any combination thereof. Theconfigurable response may result in a user defined action. The userprocessor may control the 3D printing process and ensure that itoperates at its full potential. For example, at its full potential, the3D printing process may make a maximum number of 3D object with aminimum of waste and/or 3D printer down time. The SPC may comprise acontrol chart, design of experiments, and/or focus on continuousimprovement.

In some embodiments, the user (e.g., non-client) processor comprises apre-print non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., software). Thepre-print non-transitory computer-readable medium may comprise workflow. The work flow may comprise (1) importing a model geometry of adesired 3D object, (2) repairing the desired 3D object geometry, (3)inputting 3D printing parameters (also referred to herein as “processparameters”) to the desired 3D object geometry, (4) selecting orinputting a preferred orientation of the 3D object in the material bedaccording to which orientation the desired 3D object will be printed,(5) creating or adding auxiliary support geometry to the desired 3Dobject model, (6) optimizing the geometry and/or number of auxiliarysupports (e.g., using at least one simulation), (7) optimizing theorientation of the 3D object (e.g., using at least one simulation), (8)creating a layout of individual parts in a material bed. So, thatseveral could be printed together. The process parameters may comprisepre-transformed material type, hatching scheme, energy beamcharacteristic (e.g., varied energy beam characteristic disclosedherein), deformation tolerance, surface roughness tolerance, targetporosity of the hardened material, resolution. The work flow may furthercomprise an object pre-correction operation (e.g., OPC). The OPC maydepend on the process parameters. The OPC may comprise using at leastone simulation. For example, the OPC may be added to the work flow after(2) repairing the desired 3D object geometry. For example, the OPC maybe added to the work flow before (8) creating a layout of individualparts in a material bed. The order of work flow operations (3) to (8)may be interchangeable. Any of the operations (3) to (8) may be omittedfrom the work flow. The work flow may comprise repeating any of theoperations (3) to (8) until an optimized work flow is formed. Optimizedmay be in terms of 3D print time, quality of the 3D object (e.g.,minimal deformation, resolution, density), amount of pre-transformedmaterial used, energy used, gas used, electricity used, heat excreted,or any combination thereof. The repair the 3D object model geometry maybe such that the geometry of the desired 3D object is watertight.Watertight geometry refers to a geometry that includes continuous asurface(s). The orientation of the 3D object may comprise a deviationfrom its natural position (e.g., FIG. 13C).

FIG. 9 shows an example of a work flow. The work flow may be repeated.Repetition may comprise repeating the optimization of auxiliary supportand orientation, as well as the auxiliary support and orientationselection (e.g., from FIGS. 9, 903 to 902). Repetition may compriserepeating the optimization of auxiliary support and orientation,auxiliary support and orientation selection, and geometry formation(e.g., from 903 to 901 of FIG. 9). Repetition may comprise repeating theprint layout (e.g., optimization thereof), optimization of auxiliarysupport and orientation, auxiliary support and orientation selection,and geometry formation (e.g., from 904 to 901 of FIG. 9). Repetition maycomprise repeating the print layout (e.g., optimization thereof),optimization of auxiliary support and orientation, and auxiliary supportand orientation selection, (e.g., from 904 to 902 of FIG. 9). At times,the geometry formation may take into account OPC.

In some embodiments, the work flow facilitates printing a portion of the3D object. The fundamental length scale (e.g., the diameter, sphericalequivalent diameter, diameter of a bounding circle, or largest ofheight, width and length; abbreviated herein as “FLS”) of the printed 3Dobject or a portion thereof can be at least about 50 micrometers (μm),80 μm, 100 μm, 120 μm, 150 μm, 170 μm, 200 μm, 230 μm, 250 μm, 270 μm,300 μm, 400 μm, 500 μm, 600 μm, 700 μm, 800 μm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 3mm, 5 mm, 1 cm, 1.5 cm, 2 cm, 10 cm, 20 cm, 30 cm, 40 cm, 50 cm, 60 cm,70 cm, 80 cm, 90 cm, 1 m, 2 m, 3 m, 4 m, 5 m, 10 m, 50 m, 80 m, or 100m. The FLS of the printed 3D object or a portion thereof can be at mostabout 150 μm, 170 μm, 200 μm, 230 μm, 250 μm, 270 μm, 300 μm, 400 μm,500 μm, 600 μm, 700 μm, 800 μm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 5 mm, 1 cm,1.5 cm, 2 cm, 10 cm, 20 cm, 30 cm, 40 cm, 50 cm, 60 cm, 70 cm, 80 cm, 90cm, 1 m, 2 m, 3 m, 4 m, 5 m, 10 m, 50 m, 80 m, 100 m, 500 m, or 1000 m.The FLS of the printed 3D object or a portion thereof can any valuebetween the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 50 μm to about 1000m, from about 500 μm to about 100 m, from about 50 μm to about 50 cm, orfrom about 50 cm to about 1000 m). In some cases, the FLS of the printed3D object or a portion thereof may be in between any of theafore-mentioned FLS values. The portion of the 3D object may be a heatedportion or disposed portion (e.g., tile).

In some embodiments, the layer of pre-transformed material (e.g.,powder) is of a predetermined height (thickness). The layer ofpre-transformed material can comprise the material prior to itstransformation in the 3D printing process. The layer of pre-transformedmaterial may have an upper surface that is substantially flat, leveled,or smooth. In some instances, the layer of pre-transformed material mayhave an upper surface that is not flat, leveled, or smooth. The layer ofpre-transformed material may have an upper surface that is corrugated oruneven. The layer of pre-transformed material may have an average ormean (e.g., pre-determined) height. The height of the layer ofpre-transformed material (e.g., powder) may be at least about 5micrometers (μm), 10 μm, 20 μm, 30 μm, 40 μm, 50 μm, 60 μm, 70 μm, 80μm, 90 μm, 100 μm, 200 μm, 300 μm, 400 μm, 500 μm, 600 μm, 700 μm, 800μm, 900 μm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm,20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm,300 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 600 mm, 700 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, or 1000 mm. Theheight of the layer of pre-transformed material may be at most about 5micrometers (μm), 10 μm, 20 μm, 30 μm, 40 μm, 50 μm, 60 μm, 70 μm, 80μm, 90 μm, 100 μm, 200 μm, 300 μm, 400 μm, 500 μm, 600 μm, 700 μm, 800μm, 900 μm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm,20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm,300 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 600 mm, 700 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, or 1000 mm. Theheight of the layer of pre-transformed material may be any numberbetween the afore-mentioned heights (e.g., from about Sum to about 1000mm, from about Sum to about 1 mm, from about 25 μm to about 1 mm, orfrom about 1 mm to about 1000 mm). The “height” of the layer of material(e.g., powder) may at times be referred to as the “thickness” of thelayer of material. In some instances, the layer of hardened material maybe a sheet of metal. The layer of hardened material may be fabricatedusing a 3D manufacturing methodology. Occasionally, the first layer ofhardened material may be thicker than a subsequent layer of hardenedmaterial. The first layer of hardened material may be at least about 1.1times, 1.2 times, 1.4 times, 1.6 times, 1.8 times, 2 times, 4 times, 6times, 8 times, 10 times, 20 times, 30 times, 50 times, 100 times, 500times, 1000 times, or thicker (higher) than the average (or mean)thickness of a subsequent layer of hardened material, the averagethickens of an average subsequent layer of hardened material, or theaverage thickness of any of the subsequent layers of hardened material.FIG. 16 shows an example of a schematic cross section in a 3D object1611 comprised of layers of hardened material numbered 1 to 6, with 6being the first layer (e.g., bottom skin layer). In some instances,layer #1 can be thicker than any of the layers #2 to #6. In someinstances, layer #1 can be thicker than an average thickens of layers #2to #6. The very first layer of hardened material formed in the materialbed by 3D printing may be referred herein as the “bottom skin” layer.

In some instances, one or more intervening layers separate adjacentcomponents from one another. For example, the one or more interveninglayers can have a thickness of at most about 10 micrometers (“microns”),1 micron, 500 nanometers (“nm”), 100 nm, 50 nm, 10 nm, or 1 nm. Forexample, the one or more intervening layers can have a thickness of atleast about 10 micrometers (“microns”), 1 micron, 500 nanometers (“nm”),100 nm, 50 nm, 10 nm, or 1 nm. In an example, a first layer is adjacentto a second layer when the first layer is in direct contact with thesecond layer. In another example, a first layer is adjacent to a secondlayer when the first layer is separated from the second layer by a thirdlayer. In some instances, adjacent to may be ‘above’ or ‘below.’ Belowcan be in the direction of the gravitational force or towards theplatform. Above can be in the direction opposite to the gravitationalforce or away from the platform.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention(s) have been shown,and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the artthat such embodiments are provided by way of example only. It is notintended that the invention(s) be limited by the specific examplesprovided within the specification. While the invention(s) has beendescribed with reference to the afore-mentioned specification, thedescriptions and illustrations of the embodiments herein are not meantto be construed in a limiting sense. Numerous variations, changes, andsubstitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art withoutdeparting from the invention(s). Furthermore, it shall be understoodthat all aspects of the invention(s) are not limited to the specificdepictions, configurations, or relative proportions set forth hereinwhich depend upon a variety of conditions and variables. It should beunderstood that various alternatives to the embodiments of theinvention(s) described herein might be employed in practicing theinvention(s). It is therefore contemplated that the invention(s) shallalso cover any such alternatives, modifications, variations, orequivalents. It is intended that the following claims define the scopeof the invention(s) and that methods and structures within the scope ofthese claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

1. An apparatus used in three-dimensional printing of at least onethree-dimensional object comprising: a processing chamber which isconfigured to facilitate printing of the at least one three-dimensionalobject, which processing chamber comprises a first opening; a processingchamber shutter that is configured to reversibly shut the first openingto separate an internal processing chamber environment from an externalenvironment; a build module container that comprises a second opening;and a build module shutter that is configured to (i) shut the secondopening to separate an internal environment of the build modulecontainer from the external environment, and (ii) shut the secondopening to separate the internal environment of the build modulecontainer from the internal processing chamber environment after thethree-dimensional printing, and wherein the build module container isconfigured to accommodate the at least one three-dimensional object thatis printed by the three-dimensional printing.
 2. The apparatus of claim1, wherein the internal processing chamber environment comprises a firstatmosphere, wherein the internal environment of the build modulecontainer comprises a second atmosphere, wherein the build moduleshutter is further configured to maintain in the second atmosphere (i) apressure above an ambient pressure, (ii) an ambient atmosphere, (iii) anexclusion of at least one component present in the ambient atmosphere,or (iv) any combination thereof.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2, whereinthe at least one component is a reactive agent that reacts with apre-transformed material during the three-dimensional printing, whereinthe pre-transformed material is transformed to a transformed materialduring the three-dimensional printing, and wherein exclusion is to belowa threshold.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a forcesource configured to automatically actuate the processing chambershutter and/or the build module shutter.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4,wherein the force source is configured to generate a force comprisingmechanical, magnetic, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrostatic, or electricforce.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing chamberand/or the build module container are configured to maintain a pressureabove an ambient pressure during the three-dimensional printing of theat least one three-dimensional object.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the internal processing chamber environment comprises a firstatmosphere, wherein the internal environment of the build modulecontainer comprises a second atmosphere, wherein during thethree-dimensional printing of the at least one three-dimensional object,the processing chamber and/or build module are configured to facilitatepressure maintenance of the first atmosphere and/or of the secondatmosphere respectively, to above ambient pressure.
 8. The apparatus ofclaim 7, wherein above ambient pressure comprises at least half (0.5) apound per square inch (PSI) above ambient pressure.
 9. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein shut comprises sealably shut.
 10. The apparatus ofclaim 9, wherein sealably shut is isolated from an ambient atmosphere.11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the internal processing chamberenvironment comprises a first atmosphere, wherein the internalenvironment of the build module container comprises a second atmosphere,wherein during a plurality of three-dimensional printing cycles, thefirst atmosphere and/or the second atmosphere (a) is above ambientpressure, (b) is inert, (c) is different from the ambient atmosphere,(d) is non-reactive with a pre-transformed material and/or one or morethree-dimensional objects, (e) comprises a reactive agent below athreshold value, or (f) any combination thereof, wherein thepre-transformed material is transformed to a transformed material duringthe three-dimensional printing.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe build module container is configured to cool the at least onethree-dimensional object.
 13. The apparatus of claim 12, whereinregulation of a pressure of the internal environment of the build modulecontainer is during a cooling of the at least one three-dimensionalobject.
 14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein cooling of the at leastone three-dimensional object is (i) after the three-dimensionalprinting, (ii) after disengagement of the build module container fromthe processing chamber, or (iii) after the three-dimensional printingand after disengagement of the build module container from theprocessing chamber.
 15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein (i) theinternal processing chamber environment that is separated by theprocessing chamber shutter and/or (ii) the internal environment of thebuild module container that is separated by the build module shutter:(a) has a pressure that is above the pressure of the externalenvironment, (b) is inert, (c) is not reactive with a starting materialof the at least one three-dimensional object, (d) is different from theexternal environment, (e)comprises a reactive agent below a thresholdvalue, or (f) any combination thereof.
 16. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the processing chamber is configured to be coupled to the buildmodule container during the three-dimensional printing.
 17. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing chamber is configured toseparate from the build module container after the three-dimensionalprinting.
 18. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing chambershutter is configured to shut before separation from the build modulecontainer.
 19. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing chambershutter is configured to shut before exposure of the first opening to anexternal atmosphere.
 20. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising aplatform adjacent to which the at least one three-dimensional object isprinted, wherein the build module container is configured to accommodatethe platform.
 21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the platform isconfigured to vertically translate.
 22. The apparatus of claim 21,wherein the platform that is configured to vertically translatable usinga translation mechanism comprising an encoder, vertical guide post,vertical screw, horizontal screw, linear motor, bearing, shaft, orbellow.
 23. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the platform isconfigured to vertically translatable using a translation mechanismcomprising an optical encoder, magnetic encoder, gas bearing, wheelbearing, or a scissor jack.
 24. The apparatus of claim 1, furthercomprising an energy source configured to generate an energy beam thattransforms a pre-transformed material to a transformed material to printthe at least one three-dimensional object, wherein the processingchamber is operatively coupled to the energy source.
 25. An apparatusused in three-dimensional printing of at least one three-dimensionalobject comprising at least one controller that is configured to performthe following operations: operation (a) direct a build module to engagewith a processing chamber, which processing chamber comprises (I) afirst opening and (II) a processing chamber shutter that reversiblycloses the first opening, which build module comprises (i) a secondopening and (ii) a build module shutter that reversibly closes thesecond opening, wherein the at least one controller is operativelycoupled to the build module, the build module shutter, the processingchamber, and the processing chamber shutter; operation (b) direct anenergy beam along a path to transform a pre-transformed material to atransformed material to print the at least one three-dimensional object,wherein the at least one controller is operatively coupled to the energybeam; and operation (c) direct the build module shutter to shut thesecond opening and separate an internal environment of the build modulefrom the processing chamber after the three-dimensional printing,wherein the build module is configured to accommodate the at least onethree-dimensional object that is printed by the three-dimensionalprinting.
 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the at least onecontroller is further configured to perform operation (d) direct mergingof the first opening with the second opening before operation (b) and/orafter operation (a).
 27. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein during thethree-dimensional printing, a pressure in an enclosure is above ambientpressure, wherein the enclosure comprises the build module and theprocessing chamber.
 28. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein an internalprocessing chamber environment comprises a first atmosphere, and whereinthe internal environment of the build module comprises a secondatmosphere, and wherein the second atmosphere is merged with the firstatmosphere during operation (a) to form a third atmosphere.
 29. Theapparatus of claim 28, wherein the at least one controller is programedto direct at least one pressurized gas generator to maintain the firstatmosphere, second atmosphere, and/or third atmosphere, at a pressureabove an ambient pressure, wherein the at least one controller isoperatively coupled to the at least one pressurized gas generator. 30.The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the first atmosphere, the secondatmosphere, and/or the third atmosphere is (I) above an ambientpressure, (II) inert, (III) different from an ambient atmosphere, and/or(IV) non-reactive with the pre-transformed material and/or one or morethree-dimensional objects during a plurality of three-dimensionalprinting cycles.